Severe cold weather in large portions of the U.S. led to historic increases in the price of natural gas in mid-February.
The frigid conditions lead to an increased demand for natural gas and forced shutdowns of production in some areas of the country. This created a strain on the market resulting in rates several times higher than normal.
Like many other public and co-op natural gas systems, Jo-Carroll Energy had no choice but to purchase gas at increased prices to keep our members warm. The cost of natural gas is a pass-through to our members; we do not set the purchase price that is paid for gas or add a mark-up.
Natural gas members will soon receive bills that reflect this extreme event. JCE chose to include the impact on one bill, instead of spreading it across multiple months, to clearly show the financial impact of the event. This also allows those who are eligible for assistance can apply while funds are still available.
| How Jo-Carroll Energy Can Help If you find your household or business in need of assistance, please contact Jo-Carroll Energy. They are working with members on an individual basis to make payment arrangements, discuss payment options and assistance programs available: LIHEAP provides qualifying households with monetary relief for energy bills. Eligibility is based on several factors including household size and income. The Neighbor to Neighbor fund works in tandem with LIHEAP, members must first apply to be considered. If funds are available, a member may receive a grant. Budget bill or levelized bill are also available to level out your payments over the year. |
So, where do we go from here?
Jo-Carroll Energy is working with state and national organizations to reach out to federal and state agencies and elected officials. They are working with the American Public Gas Association (APGA) to send a letter to President Biden supporting an Emergency Disaster Declaration for impacted regions of the country.
Recently, J.B. Pritzker issued an Illinois Disaster Proclamation that may offer some help.
Jo-Carroll Energy will continue to post on their website and social media as more information becomes available.
We thank our members for their cooperation and efforts to conserve energy when we asked. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us. We are here for you!