October marks National Energy Awareness Month

NEBRASKA -- With lows heading into the 30's this coming weekend, turning on the heat is not far off which could affect your gas bill.  

U.S. natural gas costs are down four times the amount in September compared to the same time last year. 

"We're all thinking about when we're going to turn on our heater and furnaces for the winter to stay warm and what those bills might mean," said Regional Community Affairs Manager Brandy Johnson. 

Johnson said the lower expected prices are due to higher production and storage levels for natural gas this season. But for Nebraskans pricing still relies on weather conditions. 

"Customers' bills are still going to be greatly influenced by our specific pricing as well as weather and that's the biggest driver going into winter but hopefully, we'll see some relief compared to previous heating seasons," Johnson said. 

If you're hearing a lot about energy now that's because October marks National Energy Awareness Month.

Black Hills Energy plans to utilize this awareness month to help spread tips such as changing furnace filters and getting inspections on your heating equipment to stay ahead this winter. 

Despite costs expecting to lower, Black Hills Energy still has programs in place to help its customers with payments through their Energy Assistance Program in partner with the Salvation Army or their budget billing program.