LINCOLN, Neb. — As temperatures drop, the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) is reminding natural gas customers of the Cold Weather Rule, which offers additional protection from service disconnection from Nov. 1 through March 31.
During this period, Black Hills Energy and NorthWestern Energy, the state’s jurisdictional natural gas utilities, must allow an extra 30 days for bill payment beyond the normal due date before shutting off service. PSC Chair Tim Schram emphasized the importance of staying warm, saying, “We want to ensure every household stays safe and warm through the winter months.” Customers facing payment difficulties are urged to contact their providers to arrange payment plans.
Nichole Mulcahy, director of the PSC Natural Gas Department, highlighted the importance of communication, stating, “The Cold Weather Rule isn’t just about preventing shutoffs – it’s about communication.” Customers can also seek assistance from programs like 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.