Recent cold temperatures caused Delmarva Power customer demand for natural gas to soar to record-breaking levels.
On January 6, customer demand for natural gas totaled 196,614 thousand cubic feet (Mcf), surpassing the previous all-time winter daily total of 190,435 Mcf set in January 2003.
The higher consumption comes as the utility sees more conversions to natural gas. Natural gas prices have remained steady to lower in recent years.
“Our customers count on us to deliver the energy they need when they need it most, especially during extreme conditions,” said Gary Stockbridge, Delmarva Power region president. “Our electric and natural gas systems continue to perform well and our ongoing investments in both systems allow us to provide the reliable energy service our customers expect.”
With the higher consumption will come higher bills that will also hit customers who use all-electric heat pumps or heating oil
Delmarva offers cold weather tips
• Check for drafts around windows and doors, and seal up any openings with weather stripping or even a rolled-up blanket. A drafty house lets warm air escape and is more costly to keep warm – especially on the coldest days of the season.
• Take advantage of natural sunlight. Open curtains and drapes during the day to let the sun warm your home and close them at night for insulation.
• Keep the fireplace damper closed tightly when not in use.
• Keep heating vents clean with a vacuum or broom and do not cover ducts with drapes or furniture that can block the airflow and possibly cause a fire.
• Use ceiling fans so the warm air that has risen can be redistributed around the room.
• Close off unoccupied rooms and regulate individual room temperatures by adjusting the registers. Adjust room registers so warm air flows across the floor and rises naturally.
• Keep your thermostat set at a constant, comfortable level, usually 68 to 70 degrees.
• Remember to turn off unnecessary lights and other electronics.
• For other tips, visit delmarva.com.
Colder weather and increased energy use can sometimes be a challenge. Customers who may be struggling to make a payment should contact Delmarva Power as soon as possible at 800-375-7117.
There are many helpful programs, such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) which provides grants that customers can use to pay their monthly heating bill. Most importantly, customers don’t have to pay the grant back. Here are some important details about LIHEAP:
Delaware customers can get more information on where to apply for benefits by visiting www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dssc/liheap.
