Important information on your natural gas bill
Resources, tips to manage heating costs
Find out if you’re eligible for our Arrears Management Plan (AMPs) funds: https://www.swlp.com/AMP
This 2021-2022 heating season has been challenging across the nation and you will see it reflected on natural gas bills. In February 2021, a significant cold weather event in Texas impacted the production at the state’s natural gas wells and consequently the supply of natural gas was constrained across the nation. This extreme cold weather event led to an elevated Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) resulting in higher gas bills this heating season.
Nearly a year later the natural gas industry is still recovering from that event. Market changes and inconsistent weather patterns are continuing to impact supply and demand. Information recently shared with Wisconsin Legislature by the Wisconsin Utilities Association further explains the current state of the natural gas industry. Click here to read the WUA Winter Heating Cost Memo.
SWL&P Gas base rates charges have not changed. The majority of the natural gas SWL&P purchases to service customers is through fixed priced contracts; however, 20% of our contracts have flexible pricing affected by spikes in market prices. Any fluctuation in those costs (higher or lower) are required to be passed onto customers through the Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA).
PGA is for purchased gas adjustment which is the variable component of the gas cost from the base rate. The PGA will be applied as either a positive or negative amount per Therm. Gas usage in therms will change every month based on individual consumption. The PGA is also a variable component as the cost of the natural gas that Superior Water, Light and Power purchases varies month to month.
You can access monthly PGA information at: PGA Rider
As cold temperatures continue throughout our region, Superior Water, Light & Power wants to help. Here are some low-cost and no-cost tips to help keep you warm and safe, and curb higher energy bills this winter.
Make winter preparation a priority
- Have a qualified technician inspect your gas furnace and appliances. Residential customers who join SWL&P’s Secure Heat program have the security of knowing that furnace repairs can be quickly and economically resolved after the original warranty has expired. Click here to learn more.
- Caulk around windows and doors to prevent air leaks. Window shrink film insulator kits are also a great low-cost option.
- Replace furnace filters every month during the heating season. Use a calendar to remind yourself.
- Be mindful of temperature settings and lower your thermostat 5 to 8 degrees at night and when not home to help save energy. Save on a smart thermostat through a rebate with our partners at Focus on Energy. Click here for more information.
- Let the sun in! Open blinds on sunny days to naturally heat your home and close them at night to keep the heat in.
- Keep your family safe by installing carbon monoxide detectors outside each bedroom and smoke alarms on each level of your house and inside every bedroom. For both types of devices, check batteries monthly and replace them at least twice a year.
- Never use your oven or range top to heat your home.
Manage your energy use
SWL&P partners with Focus on Energy to provide customers with information, resources and financial incentives (even some free stuff!) to help you manage your energy use. Please visit https://www.swlp.com/SaveEnergy/ for more information.
Sign up for MyAccount to view and manage your energy use, make changes to your account, and view and pay your bill. It’s amazing when you see the impact small conservation changes can have on your bill.
Take advantage of payment arrangement and energy assistance resources
- Eligible residential customers are encouraged to apply for assistance or refer a family member or friend to these financial resources. Even if customers have applied before, additional money may be available. Call 1-800-506-5596 or visit https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/1397 to learn more about Wisconsin’s energy assistance programs.
- SWL&P’s new Arrears Management Program along with other payment options, including budget billing and deferred payment arrangements, are available to customers who need help with their energy bills. To learn more about the options available, customers are urged to call SWL&P at 1-800-227-7957 or 715-394-2200.
We understand that unexpected changes in pricing and the resulting impact on your bill can be challenging, and SWL&P’s Customer Service team is available to help. Please call us at 1-800-227-7957 or 715-394-2200 to learn about options for managing ongoing utility costs. A customer service representative can help set up a payment plan and discuss additional resources.
