PUC encourages struggling consumers to act early and #CallUtilitiesNow to discuss utility assistance programs before winter bills rise.
Release – December 2025.
HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is highlighting ways that natural gas customers can manage energy usage and costs this winter, while also encouraging struggling consumers to act early and #CallUtilitiesNow to discuss utility assistance programs and explore energy affordability options before winter bills rise.
The PUC notes that recent changes in natural gas prices and colder weather can impact utility bills this winter – while outlining steps that consumers can take to help manage energy use, compare costs, and find help if they are struggling.
Winter Weather and Your Natural Gas Bill
Natural gas bills have two main parts:
- Delivery charges – These cover the cost of pipelines and infrastructure, and this portion of your monthly bill supports your local utility.
- Supply charges – This is the cost of the gas you use, determined either by a competitive supplier or your utility’s Price to Compare (PTC).
While delivery charges stay steady, supply charges will fluctuate with wholesale energy market prices and can vary greatly, driven by global demands and factors like extreme winter. Gas supply costs, on which a natural gas distribution company (NGDC) cannot make a profit, are reflected in the NGDC’s “price to compare,” or PTC. Current PTCs for Pennsylvania’s regulated natural gas utilities include:
Example PTCs for Fourth Quarter 2025:
- Columbia Gas of PA – $0.33169 per therm
- National Fuel Gas – $0.54463 per Ccf
- PECO – $0.53143 per Ccf
- Peoples Natural Gas Co. – $3.5912 per Mcf
- Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) – $0.63502 per Ccf
- UGI Utilities – $0.69874 per Ccf
Customers can find their PTC on monthly bills and compare offers using the PUC’s natural gas shopping website, PAGasSwitch.com.
Managing Energy Usage
Energy usage is a key factor in the size of winter energy bills – and small changes can make a big difference:
- Lower your thermostat: Each degree lower saves up to 3%.
- Service your furnace: Clean filters boost efficiency.
- Seal drafts and insulate: Keep cold air out.
- Adjust your water heater: Lowering the temperature can cut costs
- Use ceiling fans wisely: Reverse them to push warm air down.
Visit PAGasSwitch.com for interactive tools and more energy-saving ideas.
Struggling with High Bills? #CallUtilitiesNow to Explore Assistance Programs
If you’re falling behind or worried about winter bills, don’t wait – #CallUtilitiesNow. Utilities can connect eligible households to programs like:
- Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs)
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Hardship funds through utilities and community organizations
Talking directly with your utility is the best first step. Utilities can explain options, help you enroll in programs, and work out payment plans.
Staying Warm, Safe, and Connected
Consumers who cannot resolve issues directly with their utility can contact the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services at 1-800-692-7380 for help or more information about available programs.
About the PUC
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
