Natural Gas Prices
Lease or Buy?
March 7, 2017
BOXED
March 7, 2017"Oh the weather outside is frightful, But the fire is so delightful
And since we’ve no place to go, Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow."
T he lyrics of this tune could have been swirling around in your head during the Christmas Season we just closed out. Many radio stations went to all Christmas music formats the day after Thanksgiving. While the lyrics are catchy and nostalgic, the reality is it is now January in Georgia.
January in Georgia poses myriad weather conditions. It can in the 40’s or 50’s for the high or it can be like the weather forecast as I write this. This weekend, beginning January 7th, there is a Weather Storm Watch in effect for much of North and part of West Central Georgia. Whether it materializes into snow, ice or much ado about nothing, staying warm is critical.
When was the last time you compared prices for natural gas? With Georgia being one of several states which has deregulated prices, savings can be substantial by doing a little homework. Gas prices are per therm. A subtle 5 cents difference per therm could save you as much as $150 annually in your household budget. I do the price comparison every year and choose a fix rate for 12 months.
The chart below illustrates the wide disparity in price among marketer in Georgia:
| SUPPLIER | VariablePrice | 6-Month Fixed | 1-Year Fixed | 18-Month Fixed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GA Natural | 24.9 | 51.9 | 49.9 | 53.9 |
| Infinite Energy | 106.9 | 61.9 | 54.9 | -- |
| Commerce Energy | 28.9 | 60.0 | 38.0 | 44.0 |
| Gas South | 29.0 | 51.0 | 55.0 | -- |
| Constellation Energy | 89.9 | 49.9 | 45.9 | -- |
| Fireside Natural | 102.0 | 42.5 | 42.0 | -- |
| North American Power and Gas | 108.9 | 57.9 | 57.9 | -- |
These are examples of varying prices for natural gas. I did the comparison and saved 11 cents per therm for the next 12 months. Given the fact that 5 cents can mean a $150 yearly saving, I am looking forward to potentially doubling that saving in 2017.
So, what are you waiting on to do the comparison and reap the savings?
Getting Started:
- Google Eneryshop
- Choose gas prices
- Residential
- Make the comparison
Do the appropriate switch which suits your household and budget.
NOTES:
All prices obtained from : www.energyshop.com/es/prices/GA.
The monthly customer service charge range is $3.75- $5.95.
Prices last updated January 4. 2017.
