MPSC: Warmer Temperatures, Lower Natural Gas Prices Reduce Heating Bills Statewide

Contact:  Judy Palnau, 517-241-3323
Agency:  Michigan Public Service Commission

April 6, 2012 - The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today noted that warmer temperatures this winter and lower natural gas prices lowered heating bills statewide.

"Michigan's natural gas customers saw lower heating bills this heating season, thanks both to warmer temperatures and lower natural gas prices," said MPSC Chairman John D. Quackenbush. 

During the 2011-2012 heating season - considered to be November 2011 through March 2012 - temperatures were 20 percent warmer than normal.    In addition, natural gas storage levels in December 2011, according to the Energy Information Administration, were 10 percent higher than the five-year average.  Michigan benefits - year in and year out - from its capability to store natural gas underground - something most states do not have.  Utilities buy natural gas in the summer, when prices are typically lower, and store it underground for use during the heating season.

Some 80 percent of Michigan households use natural gas for home heating.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

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