Natural Gas Customers Will Save Money and Lower Their Carbon Footprint Compared to Other Forms of Energy

Washington, D.C. – The American Gas Association (AGA) announced today that natural gas customers could save up to 67 percent this winter compared to customers using other forms of energy and lower their carbon footprints. At its annual winter outlook event, held virtually, AGA shared the results of a survey of its natural gas utility members which found that customer bills nationwide will increase an average of 18 percent based on a four percent increase in demand due to colder weather.

“We expect that a colder winter will cause customers to use more natural gas, but despite increased use customers will still be saving money and lowering their carbon footprint due to the economic and environmental benefits of this fuel compared to other sources of energy,” said Richard Meyer, AGA’s Vice President, Energy Markets, Analysis and Standards.

Natural gas homes will also emit fewer emissions this winter. An Energy Star natural gas household could have a carbon footprint that is 19 percent lower than an Energy Star heat pump and 64 percent lower emissions compared to an electrical resistance furnace. The American Gas Association is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through smart innovation, new and modernized infrastructure, and advanced technologies that maintain reliable, resilient, and affordable energy service choices for consumers.

The AGA Energy Markets, Analysis and Standards team also gave an overview of the natural gas market. While natural gas prices have risen this fall, natural gas utilities use a range of physical and financial tools to help protect customers from market volatility.

Natural gas will be there for you when you need it most. In fact, on the coldest day of the year, the natural gas system delivers three times more energy than the electric grid delivers on the hottest day of the year. In addition, the Potential Gas Committee recently released their year-end assessment of the nation’s estimated natural gas resource base which says that total gas (resources plus reserves) rises to a record 3,863 trillion cubic feet.

If customers do have unusually high bills in the winter, or trouble paying their natural gas bill, they should reach out to their local natural gas utility. Natural gas utilities have flexible payment plans and access to funds for customers in need. In 2021, the United States Congress has allocated record funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) including $4.5 billion in supplemental funding as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Customers in need of assistance should contact their local state LIHEAP office.