Pennsylvania’s winter reliability reports, released by the major gas distribution companies and the Energy Association, anticipate “little change” in natural gas usage compared to last year’s heating season.

• An average natural gas heating customer can expect a $30 increase in costs this winter, according to the Energy Association’s readiness report.
• The reports describes preparations to address issues related to service reliability, supply and prices, employee safety, communications outreach, and demand for electric generators.
• Distribution companies utilize their winter readiness programs that include “preventive maintenance on equipment and facilities, frost patrols, leak surveys, and regulator and meter inspections.”
• The commission encourages consumers to prepare for colder temperatures and higher energy demands, making use of its “Prepare Now campaign” that provides information about low-income programs, energy conservation, and ways to reduce winter heating costs.