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Piedmont Natural Gas Agreement: A Step Toward Affordable Energy and Economic Growth

Piedmont Natural Gas has recently established a significant agreement that promises to alleviate costs for its customers while continuing vital investments needed for sustainable growth in the Upstate region of South Carolina. Following careful consideration of feedback from customers and stakeholders, this agreement seeks to balance the need for infrastructure with the pressing demand for affordable energy.

The Essentials of the Agreement

This comprehensive agreement, subject to approval from the Public Service Commission of South Carolina, aims to make natural gas more affordable by lowering pass-through natural gas costs – which are expenses that utilities charge customers based on the market price of natural gas. Additionally, it allows Piedmont to recoup costs associated with recent utility infrastructure upgrades, which are essential for providing safe and reliable natural gas service.

The shift in policy includes substantial reductions in costs for customers while ensuring that Piedmont continues to invest in its infrastructure. One of the key features of this agreement involves a commitment from Piedmont to allocate $220,000 over four years to its Share the Warmth program, which assists low-income South Carolinians in paying their energy bills, thereby mitigating financial burdens on vulnerable populations.

Customer Impact and Support

Approximately 170,000 customers across Anderson, Spartanburg, Greenville, and Cherokee counties benefit from Piedmont's natural gas services, with over 90% of them being residential users. This agreement reinforces Piedmont's commitment to building a stronger community while actively supporting economic development.

Emily Henson, president of Piedmont Natural Gas, emphasized the collaborative nature of reaching this agreement, stating, "We recognize the cost pressures many customers are facing, and we appreciate the thoughtful engagement and collaboration with the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff, the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs, and the South Carolina Energy Users Committee. This agreement helps us continue providing safe, reliable natural gas service while also making essential system investments and supporting South Carolina's continued growth.”

Next Steps and Looking Ahead

The next phase in this process involves the review and final decision from the Public Service Commission of South Carolina. If the approval is granted, customers can expect the new rates to take effect in October. This timeline not only aims to support immediate customer relief but also sets the foundation for long-term sustainable development in the energy sector within the Upstate.

Programs for Financial Support

To assist customers further in managing their energy costs, Piedmont Natural Gas offers several supportive programs:

• - Equal Payment Plan: This plan allows customers to evenly spread their natural gas payments throughout the year, making it easier to budget for energy expenses.
• - Energy-saving resources: Piedmont provides various tips and tools to educate customers on energy usage, encouraging them to identify potential savings in their households year-round.
• - Share the Warmth program: This initiative provides financial assistance for those struggling to pay their utility bills, and encourages customers to apply for various assistance programs available.

Piedmont Natural Gas continues to play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for its customers and ensuring that energy remains accessible and affordable as the region grows. The forthcoming changes, driven by thoughtful planning and customer-focused strategies, present a promising outlook for the future of natural gas service in South Carolina.

For additional information on programs or assistance, customers are encouraged to visit Piedmont's official website or reach out directly through their customer service channels.