As frigid temperatures hit the Southeast, resolve to save on energy bills in 2025 with programs and tips from Piedmont Natural Gas

Core Insights - Piedmont Natural Gas encourages customers to take control of their energy bills in 2025 by utilizing available resources and programs to manage costs during colder months [1][2] Energy Usage and Costs - The Energy Information Administration forecasts an increase in average household energy usage for heating this winter due to colder temperatures compared to the previous year, which will lead to higher heating expenditures [2] Customer Assistance Programs - Piedmont offers the Equal Payment Plan (EPP) to help customers manage their budgets by leveling out natural gas bills into predictable monthly payments [4] - The Share the Warmth program provides funds to local agencies to assist families with utility bills, while the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) offers support for various energy sources [5][6] Energy-Saving Tips - Recommendations include setting thermostats to lower settings, using smart thermostats, utilizing sunlight for heating, changing air filters regularly, managing water heater temperatures, sealing homes, and considering insulation improvements [9][11] Company Overview - Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, serves over 1.2 million customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, and ranks first in customer satisfaction among large utilities in the South according to the J.D. Power 2024 study [10]