Columbia Gas prices are going up but heating bill assistance is available

While many families are dreaming of a white Christmas this year, the weather outside can be frightful for households struggling to cover the cost of winter heating bills.

The global increase in gas costs may come as a shock to our customers who have turned on their heat as temperatures dropped recently. Due to low supply and high demand for natural gas, against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the cost of the commodity has nearly doubled since the last heating season.

Columbia Gas does not make a profit on the cost of natural gas. The cost is passed along to our customers without markup.

More than ever, Columbia Gas and other utility providers are working hard to connect eligible customers with federal, state, and local income-eligible payment assistance programs to help them keep their homes safe and warm.

One such program is the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered through the Kentucky Community Action Council. It has two components: subsidy and crisis. Applications for the subsidy component, based on income and primary fuel source, are being accepted at local offices starting Nov. 7. Applications for the crisis component, for households that have received a disconnection notice, will be accepted starting in Jan. 9, 2023.

Customers can receive up to $200 in subsidy funding and up to $400 in crisis funding. The cash grant is sent directly to the utility company or fuel provider to be credited on the customer’s bill.

Kentuckians with a household income at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines are eligible for assistance. The guideline has decreased from 150 percent during the pandemic years. Customers can visit ColumbiaGasKy.com/Assistance for application information.

State funding this year will include the Healthy At Home Eviction Relief Fund established during the pandemic. For assistance with past-due natural gas bills, Fayette County residents can apply at COVID19RenterHelp.org and residents in other counties can apply at https://teamkyhherf.ky.gov/.

In addition to federal and state funding, other assistance and bill management programs are available for Columbia Gas customers, even those who don’t qualify for income-based help. For a complete listing of energy assistance programs, including extended payment plans, visit ColumbiaGasKy.com/Assistance or call 1-800-432-9345, Monday through Friday from 7 am to 7 pm.

We also encourage our customers to find ways to conserve energy, including winterizing their homes and considering energy efficient appliances. For a listing of energy saving tips, visit ColumbiaGasKy.com/SaveEnergy.

Everyone knows someone who may need help with their utility bills, whether it’s an elderly neighbor, a friend, or family member. No one should have to worry about staying safe and warm during the winter months, and Columbia Gas and other utility providers can help customers navigate through the various programs and financial aid services available to them.

We’re here to help.

Kimra Cole is the president and chief operating officer of Columbia Gas of Kentucky.