Indiana customers can expected lower heating bills in winter season, NIPSCO says

Northern Indiana Public Service Co. (NIPSCO) said customers will have lower natural gas bills this winter.

NIPSCO, which is part of NiSource, said the lower rates, assuming normal weather and usage, are due to a low cost of natural gas. Customers using an average of 625 therms should expect to pay approximately $404 in total from Nov. 1 through March 31, 2020. Last year’s average bill for the same five months was about $441.

These projections look at market forecasts, supply trends, and storage levels, and are based on normal weather projections. If temperatures are colder or warmer than normal, usage amounts and bills could differ.

Gas storage is used to help offset market price volatility, company officials said. NIPSCO’s gas distribution system consists of two storage facilities and is connected to seven interstate pipelines that give access to major North American supply basins.

Customers who are experiencing financial difficulties can call NIPSCO’s 24-hour Customer Care Center for help. The company offers bill payment assistance programs, budget plans, and payment arrangements. The payment arrangement plan allows customers to make an initial payment within four days of the agreement, then spread the remaining balance over three months. Customers can obtain more information on billing options and payment assistance at NIPSCO.com/BillingPayment.