Natural Gas Aggregation Program Has New Winter Rate of $4.53

Shaker residents will see an increase in natural gas rates on Nov. 1.

But the good news is that costs will be lower than last year and the rate is the lowest of its kind in the state, according to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.

Rates will rise to $4.53 per thousand cubic feet from $3.30 per thousand cubic feet, which residents have been paying since July. The rate hike will be in place until the end of February.

Even with the increase, this winter's rate will be lower than last winter's rate of $5.66, said a recent newsletter from the city. These rates do not include county sales tax or Dominion's transportation costs and monthly customer charge.

Residents in Shaker Heights voted in 2003 to have their own gas aggregation program.

Residents can compare their total rate with Dominion and other rates through the "Apples to Apples" calculation at the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC) website.

As of October 16, 2012, Shaker's fixed rate is the lowest of all fixed rates offered to consumers individually (as listed on the PUCO's website.) Variable rates, which change monthly, may be lower.

If you already are a participant in the city's Natural Gas Aggregation Program, you can remain in the program by doing nothing. If you want to join the program, or if you would like to leave the program, contact IGS Energy at 800-280-4474, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

In Shaker, natural gas is delivered by Dominion East Ohio Gas Co., which also bills customers.

In case of an emergency, including suspected gas leaks, contact 9-1-1 and/or Dominion East Ohio Gas Co. Also, contact Dominion for any service, pipeline or billing issues.