SAN DIEGO, Oct. 28, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Higher natural gas costs nationwide, coupled with increased use of furnaces by Southern Californians chilled by this week's wet and cooler weather, are likely to result in higher natural gas bills in the coming weeks, according to San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E).
"Natural gas costs have risen nationwide due, most recently, to higher crude oil prices and damage to Gulf of Mexico production facilities from Hurricane Ivan," said Michelle Mueller, vice president of customer services at SDG&E. "These market factors, combined with more natural gas usage in the region as a result of the recent inclement weather, are likely to result in gas bills that are higher than last year."
Based on current industry price projections, typical residential customers of SDG&E will see their monthly bills increase to $126 this winter (based on 50 therms of gas usage and 500 kW of electricity usage), compared to $122 last year, Mueller said.
SDG&E offers customers these helpful tips to help manage their winter bills:
- Focus on the furnace, the use of which accounts for about half of a typical customer's monthly gas bill. - Lower the furnace thermostat by 3 degrees to 5 degrees (health permitting) and save up to 10 percent to 20 percent on heating costs. For every hour the furnace runs, it costs about $1.00. - Keep heating systems operating safely and at peak efficiency with regular maintenance. - Clean or replace furnace filters before and during the heating season or according to manufacturer recommendations and save up to 2 percent on heating costs. - Install a programmable thermostat to help regulate the home's temperature for comfort control and energy savings. - Open the drapes or blinds during the day and let the sun help warm the home. Close drapes or blinds at night to keep the warmth inside. - Caulk and weather-strip drafty windows and doors to save up to 5 percent on heating costs. - Visit www.sdge.com to receive a free online home energy-efficiency analysis, find out where the most energy is being used at home and the best ways to conserve. - While at SDG&E's Web site, look for information regarding available rebates on qualifying natural gas appliances for the home, such as energy-efficient water heaters and furnaces - or even programmable thermostats and insulation.
Mueller encouraged customers who may have difficulty paying their gas bills to call SDG&E at (800) 411-SDGE to work out special payment arrangements or to receive information on the Level Pay Plan. Customer-assistance programs, such as the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program, which provides a 20-percent discounted rate to income-qualified customers, also are available.
SDG&E is a regulated public utility that provides safe and reliable energy service to 3.2 million consumers through 1.3 million electric meters and more than 800,000 natural gas meters. The company's service territory encompasses 4,100 square miles in San Diego and southern Orange counties. Exceptional customer service is a priority of SDG&E as it seeks to enhance the region's quality of life. SDG&E is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company. To learn more, go to www.sdge.com.