Natural gas will cost less than a year ago so your home’s bill could be lower

Kentuckians who heat their homes with natural gas will see “somewhat lower” prices at the start of the 2018-2019 heating season than they did a year ago, according to the Kentucky Public Service Commission.

In a news release, the commission stated that natural gas prices have, on average, fallen about 13 percent from this time last year, and are now about 64 percent below their level 10 years ago.

The release said that when base rates, including monthly customer charges and delivery fees, are factored in, Kentucky residential customers can expect their total gas bills to be about six percent lower on average this November than last.

The total bill for 10,000 cubic feet of natural gas, not including miscellaneous charges and credits, is projected to be about $93.71 — down $5.92 from November, 2017.

“Ample production of natural gas is continuing to forestall any sharp increases in prices,” said PSC chairman Michael Schmitt.

While usage depends on how severe the winter weather is, consumers would benefit by taking steps to reduce consumption, Schmitt said, such as weatherization.

Changes in individual bills will vary by company and customer usage, the release said.

Lexington’s Columbia Gas of Kentucky serves customers in central, eastern and southeastern Kentucky.