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National Grid predicts lower electric bills this winter in St. Lawrence, depending on weather

Posted 12/20/14

Northern New York electricity distributor National Grid has projected this winter’s electricity bills to be 3 to 9 percent lower than last winter, assuming normal winter weather and typical usage. …

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National Grid predicts lower electric bills this winter in St. Lawrence, depending on weather

Posted

Northern New York electricity distributor National Grid has projected this winter’s electricity bills to be 3 to 9 percent lower than last winter, assuming normal winter weather and typical usage.

A press release from the company explains that customer’s bill consists of two components – energy delivery and electricity supply. The energy delivery portion of the bill includes National Grid’s costs to operate and maintain its networks, including emergency services and storm restoration. Delivery prices are regulated by the Public Service Commission, and are lower today than they were a few years ago. The supply part of the bill is what the supplier charges.

When it comes to the electricity supply portion of the bill, customers have the option to choose from a variety of electricity suppliers, some of whom offer fixed prices. More information can be found under “Energy Choice” at www.nationalgrid.com or at www.newyorkpowertochoose.com. Customers who elect to have National Grid purchase their electricity supply will see those costs passed along without markup. The company does not profit from purchasing electricity on customers’ behalf.

The company has taken additional steps to mitigate the month-to-month supply price volatility residential and small commercial customers saw last winter, including further hedging – or locking in – electricity supply prices for customers who choose to have National Grid purchase their energy supply. While these steps should help reduce the dramatic swings on the electricity supply portion of bills, the company cautioned that severe cold can affect both the market price for supply and the amount of energy a customer uses, the press release said.

On average, residential customers use 30 percent more electricity from November through March than they do the rest of the year.

Enrolling in the Budget Billing program can help spread payments out more evenly across the year. This is particularly helpful to individuals on fixed incomes.

Simple no-cost and low-cost tips can help manage energy consumption. Detailed information on all of National Grid’s energy efficiency programs and additional efficiency tips can be found at its energy efficiency page and by visiting NYSERDA’s energy efficiency web site.

Taking advantage of available Consumer Advocacy programs can help eligible low-income customers pay their bills. Customers who have concerns about their ability to pay are encouraged to call National Grid at 1-800-642-4272 as soon as possible. The sooner a customer calls, the easier it is for the company to offer assistance.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides financial assistance to income-eligible applicants. Households receiving public assistance, Supplemental Security Income or food stamps are the most likely to be eligible for LIHEAP. This federal program opens in November and is available on a first-come, first-served basis to all utility customers. Customers who believe they qualify are urged to call their local office of the New York State Office for the Aging or their county’s Department of Social Services for more information.