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Home > Smart Spending > Archives > 2008 > November > 03
Monday, November 3, 2008
(Au) Natural Gas: The Naked Truth
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Don’t jump to another page. Yes, this is an entry about gas, a subject with which we are obsessed, but not the type you pump into your car before going into the convenience story to buy a Big Gulp.
No, this is about the gas that warms your home. Natural gas. The good news is, you won’t have to gulp big as you pay your bill.
Costs are trending downward. That’s a blessing to those of us with variable plans, with which rates are adjusted monthly. That’s opposed to a fixed rate, where customers lock in, generally for 12 months.
With prices falling, one option is to consider a shorter fixed plan, such as six months offered by some companies. Otherwise, variable may be the way to go.
Are you on a fixed or variable plan? Happy with your choice?
The Georgia Public Service Commission provides an excellent price comparison chart for both options, plus a senior citizen menu. The most helpful column in the chart is “apples-to-apples” price per therm.
A few years ago, at the recommendation of Clark Howard, I jumped to Walton EMC. Every time I’ve checked, I patted myself on the back. You will notice on the PSC summary page that Walton pitches the lowest standard fixed rate. Kudos to Fireside Natural Gas for providing the best variable and senior citizens plan.
Have you switched companies lately? Any regrets?
As more competition invades the state, prices could dip further. One newcomer is Stream Energy, which takes a direct marketing, word-of-mouth approach designed to eliminate expenses accrued by established outfits.
Exercise caution while changing plans. Some companies charge a switch fee, and there could be hidden fees. Ask for a breakdown of your potential bill before signing on.
And if you save money, celebrate … with a Big Gulp.
Check out other money saving tips at Your Money
