Contact: Bill Edge Phone 404-656-2316 Fax 404-657-3020 
For Immediate Release 
 
Georgia Public Service Commission 
Consumer Advisory Your Choice ... Use It Wisely 
 
244 Washington St S.W. Atlanta, Georgia 30334 Phone: 404-656-4501 Toll free: 800-282-5813 
3-05 
 
Atlanta, September 8, 2006 - Now is the time for natural gas users to start thinking about ways to manage their winter gas bills, according to the Georgia Public Service Commission. Consumers who are concerned about the price they pay for natural gas should consider signing up for a fixed rate before the price of natural gas escalates, as it typically does, when it gets closer to the winter heating season. 
 
In addition to signing up for a fixed rate, consumers who are on a budget, retired or on a fixed income may find budget billing to be an attractive payment option. It allows consumers to make levelized monthly payments on their bills, and is available whether consumers have fixed or variable rate plans. Budget billing can help consumers avoid the spikes in their winter heating bills. 
Conservation is vital to any plan of action to lower one's monthly utility bill. Purchasing energyefficient equipment such as a furnace, hot water heater and/or stove, caulking around doors and windows, insulating walls, floors and the attic, are some things consumers can do to lower their winter heating bills. Of course, if you don't need to have any of your equipment replaced, be sure to have these inspected by a professional to insure operation at maximum efficiency. 
It is also a good time to see if you're getting the best value for your dollar. The Commission publishes a monthly price-comparison chart of all natural gas marketers' plans  fixed and variable. Check the price you pay your marketer with the price of other marketers to see whether it is in your best interest or not to change to another marketer. Also, the Regulated Provider is available to serve low-income citizens and those who are not able to obtain service from any of the certificated marketers in Atlanta Gas Light Company's service area. 
 
For more assistance, visit our website, www.psc.state.ga.us, to get information to help you manage your utility bills, to assist in selecting a natural gas marketer, and to get additional conservation tips. 
 
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