COLUMBUS, OH – Columbia Gas of Ohio announced that residential customers receiving their supply through default service may see a decrease in winter heating bills this season compared to last year. The natural gas commodity portion of a customer’s bill, a significant component of natural gas bills, is estimated to be around 25-35 percent lower compared to the same period in 2022.
“With the costs of many everyday items continuing to rise, we know that every bit of savings can make a difference,” said Vince Parisi, president and chief operating officer of Columbia Gas of Ohio. “The decrease in the cost of natural gas comes as good news, as we head into the winter months, when customers typically use more to heat their homes.”
Several factors contribute to the anticipated decrease in the cost of natural gas this winter season. Current market prices are lower than last year due to increased production levels, lower exports due to softening European demand, and filling storage at substantially lower prices than in previous years.
Columbia also wants customers to know they have options when choosing a natural gas supplier. Customers can receive supply through a default service procured for customers using a competitive auction process whereby suppliers bid for the right to sell natural gas to Columbia’s customers. Customers also can procure supplies for themselves by shopping in the competitive marketplace. This is referred to as Columbia’s CHOICE program. Customers can visit energychoice.ohio.gov to compare options between Columbia’s default price and PUCO-certified competitive suppliers.
Even with an estimated decrease in market prices, customers may have trouble paying their bills. Columbia wants customers to know that payment assistance is available to those who need it. Customers in need of assistance are invited to call 1-800-344-4077 or visit Columbiagasohio.com/SaveEnergy.