Colder, longer than normal winter impacts April gas bills for many

Even though spring is officially under way, Vectren Energy Delivery wants to remind customers their April natural gas bill, which reflects March energy consumption, will likely be higher than normal due to the recent unseasonably cold weather.

March weather was 25 percent colder than normal and 200 percent colder than March 2012, based on heating degree-day data.

"This heating season certainly hung on longer than expected, especially compared to last winter's very mild temperatures, and as such, furnaces were still running all the way through March," Vectren President Brad Ellsworth said. "While continued lower natural gas costs have made bills more manageable, the April bill will still be higher than expected because the cold weather drove an increase in usage."

January and February were nine and one percent warmer than normal, respectively.

For those who may be challenged to pay, Vectren has continued several programs to help Hoosiers manage costs, including second-chance options for those who have previously broken payment arrangements.

Customers can choose from the following free Vectren billing and payment options to help prevent or minimize any potential high-bill issues that often arise during the colder, winter months:

-- Payment Arrangement: Customers who are having difficulty paying bills in full can request a payment arrangement to fulfill the obligation in smaller increments over a set period of time. Eligible customers can request a payment arrangement for free by calling 1-800-227-1376.

-- Energy Assistance Program (EAP): State and federal utility assistance dollars are still available for income-eligible customers. Those that fall below 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines should visit their local community action agency to sign up for EAP. Visit www.incap.org or call 1-800-382-9895 to locate the local community action agency.

-- Universal Service Program: Natural gas customers who qualify for EAP will be automatically enrolled in the Universal Service Program (USP). The USP provides a discount on natural gas bills of eligible low-income customers from December through May.

Customers are also encouraged to apply for all residential (home or rental) weatherization programs, including programs available through community action agencies and Energizing Indiana, which can be accessed at www.energizingindiana.com or by calling 1-888-446-7750.

Finally, all customers are encouraged to follow a number of free and low-cost energy conservation tips to help reduce energy consumption year-round. Many tips, including rebates on high-efficiency appliances, can be found at www.vectren.com/conservation or by calling Vectren's Conservation Connection contact center at 1-866-240-8476.