Union Gas to lower rates, customers to save on energy costs

Long-term forecasts say natural gas will continue to be best choice for consumers

CHATHAM, ON, Sept. 12, 2014 /CNW/ - Union Gas has applied to the Ontario Energy Board to decrease the rates its customers pay for natural gas. 

Residential customers who buy gas from the utility can expect a 5 to 9 per cent decrease in their annual natural gas bill – a $50-$80 average annual savings, depending on location.  The rate change, if approved, would go into effect on Oct. 1, 2014. 

The rates reflect what the company expects to pay for natural gas supplies over the next 12 months.

"Due to plentiful new supplies, the price our customers pay for natural gas has steadily declined and is lower today than it was 10 years ago," said Steve Baker, president of Union Gas.  "Ontario had a long and tough winter last year. Although weather-related fluctuations like those the province dealt with last year can happen, long-term forecasts indicate that natural gas will continue to be most economical source of energy for homes and businesses."

As winter approaches, Union Gas customers can realize even greater savings by taking steps to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Some energy conservation tips include:

1. Get your furnace serviced: A furnace operating at peak efficiency uses less energy and costs less to operate. Change filters at least every two months.
   
   
2. Install a programmable thermostat: Save up to $100/year on gas bills. For a $25 rebate coupon, go to uniongas.com/residential/energy-conservation.
   
   
3. Reduce hot water use: A low-flow showerhead can reduce the amount of hot water you use by up to 50 per cent. Your hot water heater is the second largest energy-gobbler in your home.
   
   
4. Seal tiny holes and cracks: Up to 40 per cent of your energy dollar is wasted heating air that leaks into and out of your home.
   
   
5. Do an energy audit: Evaluating the energy efficiency of your home will help you identify the improvements that will give you the most value for your money.

You can find more energy-saving tips and tools at uniongas.com/residential/energy-conservation.

About Union Gas
Union Gas Limited is a major Canadian natural gas storage, transmission and distribution company based in Ontario with more than 100 years of experience and service to customers. The distribution business serves about 1.4 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in more than 400 communities across northern, southwestern and eastern Ontario. Union Gas, named one of Canada's Top 100 Employers  for 2014, is a Spectra Energy (NYSE: SE) company with assets of $6.4 billion and approximately 2,200 employees. For more information, visit uniongas.com.

SOURCE: Union Gas Limited

Union Gas Limited, Andrea Stass, Manager, External Communications and Media Relations, Ph: 519 436-5490 or 1-800-571-8446 ext. 5005490, Cell: 519 365-1010, [email protected]