LINCOLN – As temperatures begin to plunge, the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) is reminding natural gas customers of its Cold Weather Rule that provides additional protection from service disconnection Nov. 1 through March 31.
During this period, the state’s jurisdictional natural gas utilities – Black Hills Energy and NorthWestern Energy – cannot shut off service to customers without allowing an additional 30 days to pay beyond the normal bill due date. Customers anticipating difficulty paying their natural gas bill should contact the provider to make payment arrangements.
“We want to ensure every household stays safe and warm through the winter months,” said PSC Chair Tim Schram, District 3. “If you’re facing challenges paying your utility bill, reach out to your provider before disconnection becomes a risk.”
The PSC adopted the Cold Weather Rule more than 20 years ago, when it assumed regulatory oversight of Nebraska’s jurisdictional natural gas utilities. It is important to note that municipally owned natural gas utilities are not subject to PSC regulation and are not required to comply with the Cold Weather Rule.
The PSC encourages any customers facing hardship to contact their utility providers early to discuss payment plans or assistance options.
“The Cold Weather Rule isn’t just about preventing shutoffs – it’s about communication,” said Nichole Mulcahy, director of the PSC Natural Gas Department. “When customers stay in touch with their utility company and make a plan, they can avoid unnecessary service disruptions this season.”
Customers can also contact energy assistance programs such as Salvation Army HeatShare and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Additional resources are available on the PSC Natural Gas Department’s consumer webpage or by contacting [email protected].