Sep 23, 2008 11:18 pm US/Eastern
BGE Estimates Higher Heating Bills This Winter
BALTIMORE (CBS) ―
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Baltimore Gas and Electric Company says its residential customers can expect to have higher heating bills this winter.
WJZ
Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), a part of Constellation Energy, today announced that its residential customers can expect to have higher heating bills this winter.
The company says customers who purchase natural gas can expect a $110 average increase over last year on their home heating bills.
Assuming a normal winter, BGE, says average residential customer can expect to pay approximately $792 during the heating season, compared to $682 for the same period a year ago. This is primarily due to the increase in market price for natural gas.
"We estimate the price for natural gas will be $1.11 per thermal unit, in comparison to 95 cents last winter," said Mark Case, senior vice president of strategy and regulatory affairs for BGE. "Increased market prices for fuel and weather factor into the price we pay for home heating. However, we're able to help mitigate price fluctuations for our customers by purchasing approximately half of BGE's winter supply at a price known prior to the start of winter."
The company also says it continues to provide energy conservation and assistance outreach programs in an effort to educate low-income
ncome customers about the resources available to them.
The company says there are ways to be energy efficient including:
· Having your furnace checked to be sure it's operating efficiently and changing your furnace filter regularly.
· During the winter, for systems other than heat pumps, set thermostats at 68 ºF or lower during the day and 65 ºF at night.
· Consider a programmable thermostat which can save in energy costs year-round.
· Install an approved insulation blanket around the water heater and insulate the first three feet of water pipe (but be sure to keep insulation at least 6 inches from the flue on gas water heaters).
· Wash clothes in cold or warm water and rinse in cold water.
· Caulk and weather strip windows and doors.
· Shop for a natural gas supplier - some may be able to offer a lower or fixed price for gas.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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