Harrisburg – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) held its annual Winter Reliability Assessment meeting. The Energy Association of Pennsylvania, PECO Energy Company, AmeriGas, and the Department of Public Welfare advised the PUC that they are prepared to serve utility customers and assist them for the upcoming winter.

The presenters discussed the various conditions that may affect supply, price and service reliability of natural gas this winter.

The Energy Association of Pennsylvania said there is more than adequate supply to meet the upcoming winter demands.  On average, consumers relying on natural gas can expect to spend about 10 percent more than previously. 

PECO Energy reported that PECO will have sufficient supplies to meet demand this winter and is seeing prices higher for the entire Northeast region.

According to AmeriGas, the U.S. propane inventory remains below the five-year average. Customers can expect to pay more for propane as the levels stay low.

The Department of Public Welfare presented the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program’s plans for the assisting Pennsylvania consumers this winter. Opening day for consumers to apply for LIHEAP grants was Nov. 5, and the program will close on March 21, 2008.