Indiana Gas Assistance Extended

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) has approved extension of a bill payment and deposit assistance program for low-income customers of Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO), the largest gas distribution company in the state.

Called "Winter Warmth," the $7.9 million program will be paid for through a surcharge on customers' bills and a $1.15 million contribution from NIPSCO. Customers earning up to 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines are eligible for a $450 payment. They must enroll in NIPSCO’s budget billing plan. Deposits for qualifying customers are reduced to one-twelfth of the annual estimated bill. Up to $750,000 of program funds will be allocated to weatherize the homes of qualifying low-income customers.

The program received IURC approval as a one-year pilot program, beginning December 15, 2004 and expiring December 15, 2005. The IURC approved a temporary program extension through January 31. During its first year, the program helped about 14,000 customers and spent about $5.7 million, including $700,000 from the company and the remainder from customers. The new program is effective February 1, 2006 through December 31, 2006.

The state’s other major gas utilities, Citizens and Vectren, are operating two-year low-income assistance programs.

Source: NIPSCO

Page Last Updated: February 23, 2006