The National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation out of Erie, PA, that serves Mercer county has submitted to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) its required annual Purchased Gas Cost projection for gas purchases to be made Aug. 1, 2021, through July 31, 2022.

The company is projecting an increase in overall gas supply charges totaling approximately $71.20 per year in this state-required filing.

If approved, gas bills would increase 75.62 to $81.55 per month or by 7.85%.

The main reason for the forecasted increase is that costs associated with the purchase and transmission of natural gas are projected to be higher than those reflected in current rates.

Customers are advised that this forecast will be experienced next winter (2021-2022) and must be approved first.

By law, National Fuel is required to shop for the most reasonably priced gas while still maintaining an adequate supply for approximately 200,000 Pennsylvania customers.

As market prices fluctuate, National Fuel is required to pass those changes to customers without any mark-up or discount.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP, is open.

Eligibility for this federally funded program is based on income guidelines and household size.

For example, a family of four with a gross monthly income of $3,275 may qualify for a grant.

Monies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Customers having trouble paying bills should call National Fuel Customer Service, 1-800-365-3234, to discuss payment assistance programs.