PSC APPROVES HIGHEST NATURAL GAS INCREASE IN HISTORY

(10/27/2005)
By Bob Weaver

Americans are bracing for a natural gas price increase that averages about 47 percent for household heating.

Some are experiencing a 70 percent increase.

West Virginians who heat their homes with natural gas will fare better, at least for now.

They have waded through several price increases already, with new increases going into effect November 1.

The state Public Service Commission has just approved the largest rate increases in 30 years.

The interim residential rate increases range from 21 percent for Dominion Hope and 31 percent for Mountaineer Gas. Other gas utilities have received similar increases.

Lots of advice about how to deal with it, from "weather proofing" to setting thermostats at 62 degrees.

Little advice as to where to get the money to pay the bill.