Newsroom@DominionPost.com
As Dominion Energy West Virginia customers prepare for winter weather, they may also plan for expected increased costs to their monthly gas bills.
This increase is due to greater demand with the economic recovery and nationwide lower storage levels of natural gas heading into the heating season.
“Dominion Energy West Virginia customers have access to some of the lowest prices in the market, and while there is no U.S. shortage of natural gas, this uptick is a response to tightening supplies and market uncertainty,” said Jim Eck, vice president and general manager, Dominion Energy West Virginia. “The economy is seeing a resurgence from last year’s downturn and with that recovery is increased demand for energy, both domestically and globally.
“Demand for natural gas has increased significantly during the hottest summer on record to support electric power generation. The federal government’s Energy Information Administration is projecting an increase in drilling activity for 2022, which could ease prices.”
National gas inventories are below the five-year average heading into winter. Contributing to the low levels of storage were above average withdrawals from storage last winter due to cold weather. However, Dominion Energy West Virginia customers can be assured of sufficient natural gas supplies for this coming winter.
In addition, hot weather over the summer increased cooling demand, which increased gas consumption, while U.S natural gas production has been relatively flat. Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico also contributed to the production downturn. The upcoming winter demand for natural gas could support continued price increases given these factors.
For customers and families experiencing financial hardship, Dominion Energy West Virginia offers various payment plans and assistance programs.
Customers who may not be able to afford heating bills are urged to contact Dominion Energy West Virginia immediately about payment plans and energy assistance programs. Visit DominionEnergy.com or go to https://www.dominionenergy.com/west-virginia/billing/billing-options-and-assistance. To speak directly to an agent, call 800-688-4673.
Payment plans
- Budget billing — a convenient option to avoid seasonal fluctuations in bills. The amount you pay on your Dominion Energy natural gas bill will be the same every month, making budgeting easier.
- Flexible payment plans — Help spread payments out and make them more manageable.
Dollar energy
- Dollar Energy Fund is a 501 (c) 3 organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for households experiencing hardships by providing utility assistance and other services that lead to self-sufficiency. The program is for those facing financial hardship, who have exhausted all other forms of energy assistance. The Salvation Army administers the program.
Government programs
- 2-1-1 West Virginia – If you’re past due on your energy bill or facing disconnection of your gas service, dial 2-1-1. Trained professionals provide referrals to resources for basic human needs, childcare, elder care, housing assistance and more.
- LIEAP The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program assists low-income households with the cost of home heating through direct payments to utility companies on their behalf.
- Emergency LIEAP The emergency component will open following the close of Regular LIEAP and will continue until remaining funds are exhausted.
- Weatherization Assistance — The West Virginia Office of Economic Opportunity manages the state’s weatherization assistance program to help reduce energy costs.
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