As the temperatures continue to be crisp and cool, the Montana Public Service Commission Chairman Brad Johnson is urging utility customers to brace for higher heating bills this winter.

“A lot of customers see a high bill in January and they automatically assume rates went up when what’s really happened is their energy usage has increased dramatically,” said Johnson.

Though Montana as a whole is expected to receive a colder and wetter winter; residents in low economic counties such as Sanders County may not realize that weather alone can be the largest driving factor for price rises.

In a press release from Johnson it stated: “Customers of NorthWestern Energy, Montana’s largest utility, have seen electric bills increase in recent years, with a typical residential bill rising from about $83 per month in December 2012 to about $89 per month in December 2017.”

However, it went on to say that natural gas customers have benefited from dropping supply prices. The averaged the price difference to be approximately nine dollars.

Johnson said he understood that higher energy expenditures could put a squeeze on household budgets, leaving many to wonder how they will tackle the payment.

He urged anyone who finds themselves in that position, or concerned about their abilities to afford their heating bill, should contact their utility company about a payment plan.

“We have very knowledge customer-care employees available via phone or in person at our local walk-in offices ready to help customers who may need a little extra time to pay their bill or who may eligible for energy assistance,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, NorthWestern Energy’s Vice President, Customer Care.

“The sooner customers contact us, the more options we have available to help them get through the winter when utility bills are higher,” she continued to say.

Residents can manage power bills with a few tips provided by the PSC.

Set the thermostat to 68 degrees and add caulk or weather stripping to doors and windows for sealing possible air leaks. Turn down thewater heater to 120 degrees and instal a water-heater insulation blanket. Clean or replace the furnace filter and/or replace light bulbs to fluorescent of LED in frequent use areas.

There are also energy efficient upgrades or rebates people may qualify for, depending on the utility company and location.

Additionally, if residetns haven’t done so already, customers should consider calling their utility company to find out if they are eligible for a free home audit.

“No family should choose between heating their home and life’s other basic necessities. I urge anyone struggling with higher utility bills this winter to call 2-1-1 to learn what resources are available in your community,” said Johnson.

Tips can be found at: https://deg.mt.gov/Portals/112/Energy/EnergizeMT/Conservation/MTESG_032316_print.pdf