UPDATE: As winter temperatures plunge, households relying on natural gas should brace for significantly higher bills. Natural gas prices are on the rise, with the current fuel rate increasing from $6.787 in October to $6.961 in November, according to Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG).
With the cold weather in full effect, many homes will see their natural gas charges soaring. The urgent situation is prompting calls for residents to understand their billing structure and potential savings.
Natural gas bills consist of three main components: a service charge, a delivery fee, and the cost of the fuel consumed. Customers can choose between two plans: **Plan A** is designed for low usage, charging $26.99 per month plus a delivery fee of $4.28020 per dekatherm, while **Plan B**, favored by most residents, costs $44.84 with no delivery fee.
According to ONG, the service charge covers essential costs such as meter readings, maintenance, and customer service, ensuring that homes have a reliable supply of gas. For those heated by natural gas, typical usage for a 1,500 to 2,500-square-foot home is about five dekatherms per month, equating to an annual average of 60 dekatherms for heating.
In addition to fluctuating fuel costs, bills also reflect additional charges such as the franchise fee, city taxes, and the Winter Event Cost Recovery charge, which has been implemented to recover expenses from the severe Winter Storm Uri in February 2021. This additional cost will remain on bills until 2047.
“Our priority is to help customers feel confident about their bills. We encourage our customers to contact us if they have questions or need more information. We’re here to provide clarity and support,” ONG stated.
For those who may struggle with rising costs, ONG offers several assistance programs. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides federal aid to qualifying households, while ONG’s rebate program offers partial refunds for energy-efficient appliances, though funds are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
As temperatures dip, residents are urged to review their energy plans and consider practical energy-saving tips provided by ONG. Understanding your gas bill and making informed choices can lead to significant savings during this crucial winter season.
For more detailed information regarding your specific billing situation or to explore assistance programs, contact ONG directly or visit their official website for the latest updates.
