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January 7, 2008
Naperville, IL – Nicor Gas announced today that it has filed a January gas supply charge (GSC) of 77 cents per therm with the Illinois Commerce Commission, up 12 cents compared to December. The cost Nicor Gas pays for natural gas is passed through to customers with no mark-up, as Nicor Gas does not make a profit on the cost of natural gas. Nicor Gas’ gas supply costs continue to be among the lowest in the nation.
According to Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates, the total amount spent for natural gas consumed by Midwest residential customers during this winter heating season is expected to increase by more than 12 percent from the level of last winter.
Several factors can impact the price of natural gas: production, storage, weather, and the economy. As crude oil prices have reached record highs this winter heating season, some large-volume customers (primarily industrial consumers and electricity generators) switch between petroleum products and natural gas. Colder weather, both in our market area and across the entire northern part of the U.S., has also increased demand, placing upward pressure on prices.
“As we enter the second half of the winter heating season, we want our customers to know there are programs available to help them manage their natural gas bills. The Nicor Gas Budget Plan is offered to help level some of the highs and lows of seasonal natural gas prices," said Kevin Kirby, Vice President of Customer Care for Nicor Gas.
Bill Management Assistance
The Nicor Gas Budget Plan provides a convenient way for customers to pay their natural gas bill every month as well as a great payment option for customers who like to plan ahead. Payments are spread out over a 12-month period and periodically adjusted to correct for future gas prices and expected usage. Customers interested in signing up for the Budget Plan can call 1-888-Nicor4U (642-6748) or visit www.nicorgas.com and click on “Managing Your Gas Costs.”
Using Energy Wisely
Nicor Gas also offers many helpful resources, including Energy Depot. Energy Depot can be used to generate a personal energy profile as well as calculate the annual energy costs for customers’ complete range of home energy systems and appliances. Customers can also access tips on how to save money on their natural gas bills in “Keeping the Warmth In and the Cold Out,” a free guide on how to use energy wisely. Both of these helpful tools are accessible through Nicor Gas’ Web site at www.nicorgas.com.
Financial Help is Available
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State of Illinois. The program is administered by the Illinois Department of Public Aid and assists households with incomes of up to 150 percent of the federal poverty level pay their energy bills. For additional information about the grant program, go to www.liheapillinois.com, or call the toll-free LIHEAP information line at 1-877-411-9276.
The Nicor Gas Sharing Program offers one-time annual grants to customers who currently earn between 150% - 200% of the federal poverty level. The program, administered by the Salvation Army, is funded by direct contributions from customers, employees, and Nicor Gas. Customers who wish to make a donation and help other customers in need can do so via their monthly gas bill. If your natural gas bill is electronically transferred, you can call 1-888-Nicor4U (642-6748) or log on to your account at www.nicorgas.com/myaccount to pledge a Sharing contribution. To apply for assistance from the Nicor Gas Sharing Program, customers should visit their local
Salvation Army office.
Additional information about these programs can be found at www.nicorgas.com or by calling 1 888 Nicor4u (642-6748).
Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies. Owned by Nicor Inc. (NYSE: GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe and reliable natural gas services for over 50 years. The Company serves more than two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information on Nicor Gas, visit www.nicorgas.com. | 
