Columbia Gas Of Ohio News Feed

Prepare for Winter NOW

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Columbia Gas of Ohio says NOW is the time for customers to start planning and taking action to protect themselves against unexpectedly high heating bills next winter. The company today urged its customers to make bills predictable and manageable by signing up for its Budget Payment Plan.

While the company cannot predict exactly how high prices might be this winter, if current commodity price trends continue that will mean higher winter bills. While gas distribution companies do not control or profit from commodity prices, and by law pass them on dollar-for-dollar, there are ways Columbia Gas can help you manage your bills and save money.

Given the extreme volatility of today's natural gas markets, customers seeking to soften the impact of potentially high bills should consider enrolling in Columbia's Budget Payment Plan. The plan estimates the cost for a year of gas service and spreads it more evenly over the entire budget year, beginning with the August bill.

Each customer's budget billing amount is different, and is based on the historical usage patterns for their home. The average budget billing amount for the 2008-09 program year is projected at $133 a month. Columbia Gas bases its projections on current and estimated gas prices for the budget year, current rates for service and delivery, and on an average of consumption for typical residential households assuming normal weather. Columbia Gas reviews budget accounts in March to determine the impact of unexpected weather conditions and swings in the market price of natural gas. During the review, the company may adjust budget customers' payment amounts, if necessary, to keep them on track with actual account balances.

Three easy ways to enroll

To enroll in the Budget Payment Plan, customers need only pay the budget amount shown on their August bill and any past-due balance instead of the current amount due. They can also enroll online or by phone. While customers can enroll in the plan at any time as long as their account is current, delaying raises their payment amount because there are fewer months in the budget year over which to spread the costs of winter heating. That's why Columbia Gas recommends joining the plan at the beginning of the budget year in August.

"The Budget Payment Plan allows customers predictability in their natural gas bills and greatly reduces the impact of large usage and price spikes that can occur during the heating season," said Linda Siddons, head of Columbia's customer billing and payment operations. "Customers' budget amounts are based on their usage, and they never pay for more than they actually use. The program is a win for customers."

More information on the plan appears in the company's bill inserts during August, and under Billing Options from the "Manage Your Home Account" link on its web site at www.columbiagasohio.com.

Use Gas Wisely

Customers are also encouraged to check the web site to perform a do-it-yourself home energy audit and to learn a number of ways they can manage their natural gas usage and save money. Examples include:

Install an Energy Star programmable thermostat If you live in an older house, consider adding attic and wall insulation
Turn your water heater temperature down from 140 to 120 degrees
Install an energy- and water-saving shower head
Seal air leaks in your home if you feel drafts
Wash clothes in cold water
Run only full loads in your dryer
If you plan to replace your furnace, consider one with an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating greater than 92%

Now is the Time to Act

Consumers who don't want to get caught out in the cold this winter should enroll NOW in the Columbia Gas Budget Payment Plan, and should take action on the above conservation tips that will help save money on heating bills this winter.

Columbia Gas of Ohio, with headquarters in Columbus, is one of the 10 energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). Serving approximately 1.4 million customers in 60 of Ohio's 88 counties, it is the largest natural gas utility in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve 3.8 million gas and electric service customers primarily in nine states. More information about Columbia Gas of Ohio is available at www.columbiagasohio.com.

Newark Project Among First in State to Benefit From Columbia Gas of Ohio's $2 Billion Pipeline Improvement Program

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

6/3/2008
$525,000 Shields Avenue Area Project to Enhance Natural Gas Service

Newark, Ohio-Columbia Gas of Ohio is planning a major pipeline improvement project in the Shields Avenue-area neighborhood this summer. Beginning by mid-June, the company will replace 9,000 feet of natural gas mainline in an area bordered by Moull St. to the north; Selby St. to the south; Buckingham St. to the east; and W. Sherwood Dr. to the west.

The $525,000 project will replace existing steel pipe with specially designed plastic pipe. The project will impact about 200 customers and is expected to be done by late summer. About 170 gas service lines will be replaced.

The project includes a number of streets, including: Moull St.; N. Sherwood Dr.; W. Sherwood Dr.; E. Sherwood Dr.; 11th; N. 10th; Eddy St.; Buckingham St.; Selby St.; Woods Ave.; Wallace Place; Central Ave.; and Shields Ave. It's expected any disruptions to traffic in the area will be minimal.

The work requires a temporary interruption of natural gas service. Impacted customers will be contacted via letter in advance. Columbia Gas will make personal contact with customers prior to shutting off service and to schedule service restoration.

"Columbia has been in contact with the city," said Mayor Bob Diebold, "and we appreciate their commitment to Newark and we plan to work with them to be sure the needs of our citizens are met."

As a reminder, all Columbia employees and contractors carry identification cards bearing their name, photograph and identification number and will be happy to show it. Customers with indoor meters will have them moved outside of the home so entry to the home is no longer needed to read the meter. Any meter move out and customer service line replacement will be done at no additional cost to the customer. Columbia Gas of Ohio will spend nearly $2 billion over the next 25 years to improve its 19,000 mile underground pipeline system.

Columbia Gas of Ohio, with headquarters in Columbus, is one of the 10 energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). Serving approximately 1.4 million customers in 60 of Ohio's 88 counties, it is the largest natural gas utility in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve 3.8 million gas and electric customers primarily in nine states.

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Columbus Neighborhood among First in State to Benefit from Columbia Gas of Ohio's $2 Billion Pipeline Improvement Program

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

3/5/2008
$5.5 Million Atwood Terrace Project to Enhance Natural Gas Service

Columbus, Ohio - Columbia Gas of Ohio is planning a major pipeline improvement project in a North Linden-area neighborhood this spring.

Beginning in early April, the company will replace 44,500 feet of natural gas mainline in an area bounded by Weber Road to the north, Hudson Street to the south, Beulah Road/Interstate 71 to the west and McGuffey Road to the east.

The $5.5 million Atwood Terrace project will replace existing steel pipe with plastic pipe, replace customer service lines and move indoor meters outside. About 1,300 customers will be affected.

Columbia Gas of Ohio will host a public open house from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 13, at the Linden Community Center, 1254 Briarwood Ave., Columbus. The purpose is to provide information and answer questions from residents and property owners in the project area.

The construction work will require a temporary interruption of natural gas service. Customers impacted will be contacted via letter in advance of the scheduled work. Columbia Gas will make personal contact with customers prior to shutting off service and to schedule re-light appointments.

As a reminder, all Columbia employees and contractors carry identification cards bearing their name, photograph and identification number and will be happy to show it.

Customers with indoor meters will have them moved outside of their home or business. The meter move-out and service line replacement will be done at no additional cost to the customer.

Columbia Gas of Ohio will spend nearly $2 billion over the next 25 years to improve its 19,000-mile underground pipeline system.

Columbia Gas of Ohio, with headquarters in Columbus, is one of 10 energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). Serving approximately 1.4 million customers in 60 of Ohio's 88 counties, it is the largest natural gas utility in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve 3.8 million gas and electric customers primarily in nine states.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Ken Stammen, (614) 460-6231

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Columbia Gas Files Plans for Program to Save Energy, Lower Bills

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

7/2/2008

Columbus, Ohio - With natural gas commodity prices at record levels, Columbia Gas of Ohio has proposed new tools that will help customers reduce their natural gas consumption, and their bills.

The company late yesterday filed an application with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) for permission to create a comprehensive energy conservation program that would be open beginning in 2009 to its residential and small commercial customers.

The filing is the result of months of research and collaborative work by Columbia, the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC), the PUCO staff and other partners.

"Natural gas commodity costs make up 80 percent of the average customer's bill," said Columbia Gas of Ohio President Jack Partridge. "Those costs are rising, and we and others see a need to help our customers manage these costs in a more comprehensive way than we ever have before."

This energy conservation, or Demand-Side Management (DSM), program would offer a wide range of services to residential and small commercial customers. These include:

For Residential Customer

Home Performance Program. Rebates would be offered to residential customers to help offset the costs of a diagnostic home energy audit and energy efficiency upgrades to their existing home, including wall and attic insulation, air sealing and installing a high-efficiency gas furnace.
Residential New Construction Program. New home builders would be eligible for financial incentives, training and technical assistance to encourage them to build houses that are 50 percent more efficient than current federal standards.
Low-cost Rebate Program. Columbia customers who purchase Energy Star programmable thermostats and/or ultra low-flow showerheads would be eligible for rebates.

For Commercial Customers

Small Business Energy Efficiency Incentives Program. Businesses using less than 300 Mcf (1 Mcf = 1,000 cubic feet) of gas a year would be eligible for rebates for high-efficiency heating systems, insulation upgrades, and air leakage and duct sealing. Other energy conservation measures that are recommended by a facility energy audit may be eligible for rebates if determined to be cost effective.
Small Business Energy Saver Audit Program. Columbia Gas of Ohio would offer an online energy audit tool in partnership with the Ohio Department of Development that would produce customized energy savings recommendations for businesses that complete the audit.
Advanced Energy Design Partnership Program. Building industry professionals and owners would receive continuing education on the benefits of constructing buildings that are designed with building science taken into consideration and that are 30 to 50 percent more efficient than current commercial energy efficiency building codes.
Innovative Technology Program. Columbia will form an advisory group to help review applications for funding assistance to implement innovative approaches to achieving natural gas usage reductions in commercial buildings.

For Residential and Small Commercial Customers

Energy Efficiency Loan Fund. Columbia would work with finance experts such as Ohio's Community Development Finance Fund to design a low- or zero-interest loan fund for DSM participants.

Columbia proposes to operate these DSM energy conservation programs for calendar years 2009 through 2011. The company also proposes to expand its existing WarmChoice home weatherization program for low-income customers. Columbia estimates that the energy-savings measures installed through these programs could save customers about $100 million on their gas bills over the life of the measures. As an added benefit, it will also reduce carbon dioxide emissions into Ohio's air by nearly 458,000 tons.

The company agreed in December 2007 to work with stakeholders to develop a comprehensive energy efficiency program for its residential and small commercial customers.

The DSM program is subject to PUCO review. Columbia will communicate to its customers how they can take advantage of the new programs, if they are approved.

Columbia Gas of Ohio developed the DSM proposal with a large and diverse stakeholder group which included the OCC, the PUCO staff and representatives of low-income customer advocacy groups, community-based organizations, heating and cooling and building industry groups, business advocacy groups and government agencies.

Columbia hired two independent consultants to help develop an action plan that would be cost effective and result in meeting energy savings targets that were included in the December 2007 agreement.

The company proposes to spend $24.9 million to operate the DSM conservation programs over three years. Columbia will seek to recover those costs through a rider that would be added to residential and small commercial customer bills beginning in May 2010. The company estimates that the charge for the average customer would be less than 50 cents per month.

Columbia is also proposing to increase spending on WarmChoice by $1.6 million to $7.1 million per year from 2009 through 2011. WarmChoice is funded through Columbia's base rates.

About Columbia Gas of Ohio

Natural Gas Furnaces Offer Comfort, Reliability, Savings

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Natural gas heat is more comfortable.
Because natural gas heat is circulated at a temperature above body temperature, it makes you feel warm and cozy. Electric heat pumps, on the other hand, deliver air at a temperature lower than body temperature, creating a cool sensation. Heat pump users often are tempted to turn up the thermostat setting so they won't feel the draft of the cooler air.

Natural gas heat is also more efficient.
The US Department of Energy reports natural gas as the least expensive way to heat your home. Total Energy Efficiency calculates the efficiency of any form of energy from its source to the point it's used, including production and transmission. When the delivery factors are compared, natural gas provides more heat for the same amount of fuel. In fact, nearly three times more energy reaches the consumer with natural gas.

Gas furnaces also are more reliable than heat pumps.
Since there are fewer mechanical parts to wear out, less servicing is required during the equipment's lifetime.

Natural gas heating equipment provides the warmth, comfort and cleanliness homeowners want, along with dependability of service.

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Questions & Answers about Columbia Gas of Ohio's Rate Case

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Columbia's New Rates: Questions and Answers

Q: Where do things stand with Columbia's rate case?�

A:�ThePublic Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) on Dec. 3 approved a settlement agreement which authorizes the company to collect an additional $47.1 million in annual revenue. It's the company's first base rate increase since 1994.�

Q: How much will my bill increase?

A: The average residential customer's bill will increase by about $2.50 per month, or $30 per year. That's a 2.6 percent increase.

Q: When do the new rates take effect?

A: Bills issued on and after Dec. 3 will include the higher rates.

Q: I'm a Budget Payment Plan customer. Will it affect my bill?

A: Not immediately. Budget Payment Plan amounts will be reviewed in March, and an adjustment may be necessary then.

Q: My gas is supplied by a CHOICE marketer. Will the new rates affect my bill?

A: It would affect all customers. CHOICE customers, including those in municipal aggregation programs, purchase the natural gas commodity through a marketer, but that gas is still delivered to their home or business through the Columbia Gas of Ohio distribution system. The CHOICE program will continue.

Q: Are there any customer benefits in this rate case?

A: Yes! Columbia Gas will invest money in replacing aging distribution pipelines, repairing hazardous customer service lines and risers, installing Automated Meter Reading devices on all meters and launching a comprehensive new energy efficiency program that will assist residential and small business customers in reducing their natural gas usage. These investments will result in a safer, more-reliable delivery system with fewer leaks and outages, and will boost customer convenience. These programs will also shield customers from large repair bills and help them reduce their gas costs.

Q: Will Columbia Gas of Ohio do anything to help low income customers cope with higher rates?

A: Yes. The company has agreed to spend $3 million on programs to assist low-income customers during the next five winter heating seasons. It will also increase funding of its nationally recognized WarmChoice home weatherization program, allowing it to serve 500 more households annually.

Q: How will Columbia promote energy conservation?

A: The program will begin in January by offering Columbia customers rebates for purchasing programmable thermostats and low-flow shower heads. Later in 2009, it will offer rebates and other assistance to encourage customers to install energy conservation measures like attic and wall insulation, air sealing and high-efficiency furnaces. This program could help a customer reduce annual gas usage by up to 34 percent. Columbia will communicate more details to customers as they become available.

Q: Will this new rate plan help Columbia Gas of Ohio stimulate economic development in Ohio?

A: Yes. The infrastructure replacement program will create jobs both for Columbia Gas of Ohio employees and construction contractors and create demand for materials and construction equipment. It will also increase pipeline capacity in some areas, which could support business development.

Q: How will the infrastructure replacement program be paid for?

A: The PUCO has authorized Columbia to create an Infrastructure Replacement Program Rider which would take effect in May 2009. This fixed charge can be no more than $1.10 per month in the first year. This monthly charge may increase by a maximum of $1.10 in 2010 and by up to $1 in each of the following three years.

Q: How will the energy conservation program be paid for?

A: The Commission has authorized a rider that would take effect in 2010 and last through 2012. The average Columbia residential customer would pay less than 50 cents per month.

Q: Is Columbia changing the way it calculates my bill?

A: For the gas delivery or base rate portion of the bill, Columbia will gradually shift to a fixed monthly delivery charge. Beginning this month, Columbia's monthly customer charge will increase from $6.50 to $12.16, while the usage-based charge will decline from nearly 14 cents per 100 cubic feet (Ccf) to less than 8 cents ($0.07911) per Ccf. Beginning in December 2009, the monthly delivery charge would increase to $17.81 and the usage-based charge will be eliminated. Gas costs will still be billed based on usage.

Q: What are base rates?

A: Base rates generate the revenue needed to build, maintain and operate Columbia Gas of Ohio's natural gas delivery system. This system includes 19,000 miles of pipelines, regulator stations, meters and other facilities. This charge is separate from gas costs, which make up 80 percent of the bill.

Q: Why does Columbia Gas of Ohio need higher base rates?

A: Columbia Gas of Ohio has invested more than $850 million in its distribution system since its last base rate case in 1994. These dollars haven't been recovered. Columbia will also need to make significant investment in repairing and upgrading its gas delivery system in the coming years.

Q: If your rates haven't increased since 1994, why is my bill so much higher now than it was then?

A: Bills have increased, but that is due to increased natural gas commodity costs. Columbia Gas of Ohio isn't a natural gas producer and doesn't control natural gas prices. Those prices are passed along dollar-for-dollar to our customers through our Gas Cost Recovery (GCR) adjustment. Under Ohio law, gas utilities may not profit on gas commodity sales. Columbia has no incentive to raise its GCR and, in�have responded by reducing their usage. When we deliver less gas, it hurts our ability to recover our gas distribution costs.�

New Columbia Gas program could help customers save nearly $200 a year

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Columbus, Ohio - For residential customers who want to take affordable steps now to manage their gas bills, Columbia Gas of Ohio has launched its Simple Energy Solutions rebate program to help customers reduce their natural gas consumption with energy-saving programmable thermostats and high- performance, energy-efficient showerheads.

"Programmable thermostats can lower heating and cooling costs by up to $180 annually and high-performance, energy-efficient showerheads can help reduce natural gas and water usage without sacrificing water flow," said Columbia Gas of Ohio President Jack Partridge. "This rebate program is just one of several solutions that we will make available this year to help customers save energy at their homes and businesses."

Showerheads available through Simple Energy Solutions can save a customer at least $10 a year in gas costs and also reduce water bills by saving nearly 3,000 gallons of water per year.

Residential customers are now eligible for rebates of $10 off qualified high-performance, energy-efficient showerheads and $25 off ENERGY STAR� qualified programmable thermostats. The rebates are offered through Columbia's e-store at ColumbiaGasOhio.com/e-store�or by calling 1-866-542-4767. Products must be ordered using a valid Columbia Gas of Ohio residential account number. Customers who purchase eligible thermostats and showerheads from a local retailer can download a mail-in rebate form from the e-store or call 1-866-542-4767 to request a rebate form be sent to them.

The rebates are part of Columbia's Energy Solutions, a new portfolio of energy efficiency programs that is scheduled to operate now through 2011. Columbia will invest up to $24.9 million over three years on programs open to all residential and small commercial customers. The program is expected to reduce carbondioxide emissions by nearly 252,000 tons. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, that is the environmental equivalent of removing over 41,538 cars from the road for a full year.

Additional residential offerings expected to launch this year include energy efficiency solutions for existing and new homes and small businesses. The company is also expanding its existing WarmChoice� home weatherization program for low-income customers.

In addition to installing programmable thermostats and high-performance, energy-efficient showerheads, Columbia Gas of Ohio offers these additional no- and low-cost tips to help customers start saving energy in their homes today:

Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees. For added savings, have
your water heater wrapped with an insulation blanket.
Let the sun work for you. In the winter, leave your window coverings open during the day so that the heat of the sun can help warm your home. In the summer, close the blinds in the morning to shade your rooms.
Install weather stripping to block drafts from underneath doors. You'll improve comfort and save money on heating.
Make sure that heat registers have proper airflow. Sometimes vents can be blocked by furniture and heat doesn't circulate properly. Just by rearranging the room, you can improve comfort and lower costs.

Columbia Gas of Ohio, with headquarters in Columbus, is one of the nine energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). Serving approximately 1.4 million customers in 60 of Ohio's 88 counties, it is the largest natural gas utility in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve approximately 3.8 million gas and electric customers primarily in seven states.

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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Ken Stammen (kstammen@nisource.com), (614) 460-6231
Chris Kozak (crkozak@nisource.com), (419) 539-6043
Ray Frank (rfrank@nisource.com), (440) 240-6122
Dave Rau (drau@nisource.com), (614) 460-6808
Gayle Nowak (gayle@haggman.com), (978) 525-3742

Who benefits from Columbia's new rate plan?

sweller@nisource.com — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Columbia's New Rate Plan

How�has Columbia Gas traditionally�billed its customers?

Your natural gas bill is made up of two fees: one for gas delivery and one for the gas itself. When you use more gas the cost of natural gas on your bill goes up, and under our traditional rate plan,�your delivery fees went up as well.

How will Columbia's new rate plan affect my bill?

Columbia's new rate plan changes the way you're billed so that your delivery fees will be even throughout the year, and you'll have a better idea of what to expect.

Why did Columbia�change the way it bills me?

Because our revenues�are no longer tied to how much gas you use, we can help you manage the natural gas portion of your bill. We want to put the power to manage your bills in your hands through energy efficiency and conservation.

Conservation Programs

Residential Programs

Home Performance - Columbia will offer rebates to residential customers who use approved contractors to complete energy audits, attic and wall insulation, air sealing and high efficiency natural gas furnaces. The more eligible major conservation measures installed, the higher the rebate levels.

New Home Construction - Builders who construct homes that are 50% more efficient than Ohio's new residential building energy code will be eligible for financial and energy rating incentives and technical assistance.

Low Cost Measures Program - Customers who install approved ENERGY STAR� programmable thermostats and ultra-low flow showerheads will be eligible for rebates.

WarmChoice� - Columbia will continue to provide home weatherization services to customers with incomes at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Research - Columbia will conduct market research on the high efficiency gas furnace market and work to increase awareness of this energy saving technology.

Commercial Programs

Small Business Energy Efficiency Incentives - Commercial customers who install approved energy conservation measures in their facilities will be eligible for rebates.

Small Business Energy Saver - Columbia will provide an online energy audit tool for small businesses to take self-directed action to manage their energy use.

Innovative Technology - Grants for special energy conservation and efficiency demonstration projects will be available to commercial customers through a competitive award process.

Advanced Energy Design - Columbia will support continuing education for architects, engineers, designers and builders of commercial facilities to exceed the commercial buildings energy code by 30-50%.

Financing Programs

Energy Efficiency Loan Fund - Columbia's loan fund will offer customers a simple way to finance eligible energy efficiency improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions�

I'm a low-income customer; will Columbia's new plan still help me manage my bill?

A recent study of Columbia Gas customers shows that low-income doesn't always mean low-usage. While this may be surprising, it actually makes sense with a little-known fact: low-income customers are more likely to live in homes that lack proper insulation and have inefficient appliances and air leaks. That means you have to use more natural gas for the same services as a customer in an efficient home.

Traditionally, as you used more natural gas, your delivery fees increased as well. Columbia's new rate plan changes the way you're billed so that your delivery fees will be even throughout the year, and you'll have a better idea of what to expect. We're also helping you manage your natural gas usage through energy efficiency and conservation programs. Our new rate plan lets you manage your natural gas bills better than ever before.

What else is Columbia Gas doing to help its customers?

Under our new rate plan, we can replace�4,000 miles of aged, unprotected metal pipelines with modern pipe that doesn't corrode and is easier to repair if damaged, and be done in 25 years.� A modern system gives you safer, more-reliable service designed to support both your family and economic growth in Ohio.

In the past if something broke on the natural gas pipeline outside your home, you had to call a contractor to fix it. That meant you were left with expensive repairs and a big headache. Today we handle the customer service line and riser repairs outside of your home. Our new rate plan supports this program, so we can help shield you from those big repair bills.

How will conservation help manage my natural gas bill?

We'll help you manage the natural gas portion of your bill by creating conservation programs that teach you to get more out of using less gas, and rebates for energy efficient appliances that help put money back in your pocket. And as more of us conserve, that should stabilize natural gas prices, or even bring them down.

Columbia Gas of Ohio to Reduce Its Budget Payment Plan Amounts

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Columbia Gas of Ohio has good news for its Budget Payment Plan customers, the company said today.

In an unprecedented move triggered by a steep decline in natural gas prices, the company will reduce the budget payment amount for most residential customers by about $30.00 per month, or by approximately 22 percent, effective with October bills. For the average residential customer who purchases their gas from Columbia, the monthly budget payment amount will drop from about $133.00 to about $103.00. This is the first time Columbia has adjusted budget payment amounts prior to the heating season.

"People are concerned about the unsettled economy and worried about winter heating bills," said Columbia President Jack Partridge. "Anything we can do right now to provide some relief and stability is absolutely the right thing to do."

Normally, a review of the budget payment amounts is done each March. But with the current economy and the fact that higher natural gas prices that existed last July, when the original budget amounts were set, have fallen dramatically since then, the company decided the pre-winter review was prudent.

With the reduction, the average residential budget payment amount will be only about a dollar higher than it was last year. A small number of budget payment customers who do not purchase their gas from Columbia may not get a reduction, depending on their contract with their marketer. Customers will be notified about their budget adjustments through a message on their October bills.

Columbia reminds customers that it's still not too late to enroll in the Budget Payment Plan online or by phone.
Columbia Gas of Ohio, with headquarters in Columbus, is one of the 10 energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). Serving approximately 1.4 million customers in 60 of Ohio's 88 counties, it is the largest natural gas utility in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve 3.8 million gas and electric customers primarily in nine states. More information about Columbia Gas of Ohio is available at: Columbia Gas.

Natural Gas Logs Offer Warmth and Charm

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Today's homeowners can bask in the warm glow of a clean-burning natural gas fireplace. With realistic, permanent logs and flame control, today's natural gas fireplaces create a beautiful, charming, hassle-free fire.

Gas logs save work, time and money.
No more smoke, embers, soot and ashes of a wood-burning fireplace. No more buying, chopping or hauling heavy, dirty wood. And homeowners can enjoy the charm and warmth of natural gas logs for about one-third to one-half the cost of wood.

Gas logs are cleaner and safer.
Natural gas logs promote cleaner air in and around the home and the yellow and orange flames of natural gas logs do not produce dangerous sparks or embers. Also, homeowners no longer need to have the chimney cleaned. Because unlike burning wood, natural gas does not produce creosote. Allowing creosote to build up on the inside of a chimney restricts the available draft and can eventually result in a chimney fire.

Instant flame.
The fire can be turned on and off instantly without crumpled newspaper, dried kindling or long-lasting embers. In fact, some models feature a remote control, allowing instant on or off from the comfort of a favorite chair.

Vent-free models are safe and reliable, and can be purchased in a wide range of styles to suit the decor. Vent-free models can easily be installed almost anywhere in the home. Wood-burning fireplaces can be converted to natural gas easily through an array of gas logs and inserts that are available through any natural gas appliance dealer.

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Pomeroy among First Communities in State to Benefit from Columbia Gas of Ohio's $2 Billion Pipeline Improvement Program

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

4/21/2008
$1.1 million Project to Enhance Natural Gas Service

Columbus, Ohio - Columbia Gas of Ohio this week is beginning a major pipeline improvement project in Pomeroy.

The company will replace about 10,000 feet of natural gas mainline in the village. The work will be done on Legion Terrace, Mulberry Street, Anne Street, East Second Street, West Second Street, Court Street, East Main Street, West Main Street, Butternut Avenue, Lincoln Terrace and Mechanic Street.

The Pomeroy project will replace existing steel pipe with plastic pipe, replace customer service lines and, where practical, move indoor meters outside. About 130 customers will be affected.

The construction work will require a temporary interruption of natural gas service. Customers impacted have been contacted via letter in advance of the scheduled work. Columbia Gas will make personal contact with customers prior to shutting off service and to schedule re-light appointments.

As a reminder, all Columbia employees and contractors carry identification cards bearing their name, photograph and identification number and will be happy to show it.

Most customers with indoor meters will have them moved outside of their home or business. The meter move-out and service line replacement will be done at no additional cost to the customer.

Columbia Gas of Ohio will spend nearly $2 billion over the next 25 years to improve its 19,000-mile underground pipeline system.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Ken Stammen, (614) 460-6231

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Bexley among First Communities in State to Benefit from Columbia Gas of Ohio's $2 Billion Pipeline Improvement Program

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

4/17/2008
Mainline Replacement Project to Enhance Natural Gas Service

Columbus, Ohio - Columbia Gas of Ohio will begin a major pipeline improvement project in Bexley this spring.

The company will replace nearly 4,500 feet of natural gas mainline in a section of the city which includes portions of South Dawson Avenue, South Ardmore Road, South Cassady Avenue, South Cassingham Avenue, Dale Avenue, Elm Avenue, Fair Avenue and Plymouth Avenue.

The Bexley project will replace existing steel pipe with plastic pipe, replace customer service lines and move indoor meters outside. About 100 customers will be affected.

As a reminder, all Columbia employees and contractors carry identification cards bearing their name, photograph and identification number and will be happy to show it.

Customers with indoor meters will have them moved outside of their home or business. The meter move-out and service line replacement will be done at no additional cost to the customer.

Columbia Gas of Ohio will spend nearly $2 billion over the next 25 years to improve its 19,000-mile underground pipeline system.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Ken Stammen, (614) 460-6231
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Customers to Benefit from Rate Settlement Approval

sweller@nisource.com — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

12/03/2008

*New energy efficiency program will launch in January
*Expanded WarmChoice program will assist more families
*Company to spend $3 million on low-income bill assistance
*Automated monthly meter reads to enhance convenience

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Columbia Gas of Ohio today received approval from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio of an agreement which settles the company's rate case and allows it to begin delivering benefits to its customers.

As a result of the PUCO's action, Columbia will be able to provide residential and small business customers with new tools to conserve energy, provide low-income customers extra help in managing and paying their heating bills and make investments which will boost the safety and reliability of the company's natural gas-delivery system.

The settlement was reached in October and was agreed to by Columbia, the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel, the staff of the PUCO, Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy and other parties.

"Today's decision by the commission ensures that Columbia will be able to begin offering customers some new tools to manage their bills in time for this winter heating season," said Columbia Gas of Ohio President Jack Partridge. "It also ensures that we'll be able to make necessary investments in our infrastructure - investments that will benefit both customers and Ohio's economy."

The PUCO decision allows Columbia to collect an additional $47.1 million in annual revenue, its first base rate increase in 14 years. The typical residential bill would increase by about $2.50 per month, or 2.6%, effective Dec. 3, 2008.

Other key elements of the settlement include:
. Energy Efficiency Programs. Columbia will spend $24.9 million over three years on programs open to all residential and small commercial customers which will provide financial incentives for installing conservation measures such as programmable thermostats, low-flow shower heads, air sealing, insulation and high-efficiency gas furnaces. The thermostat and shower head program will launch in January.
. Expanded WarmChoice. The company will spend an additional $2 million per year on its WarmChoice home weatherization program. This will allow it to serve an additional 500 low-income families per year.
. Low-Income Bill Payment Assistance. Columbia has also committed $3 million in shareholder funds for cash assistance and bill credit programs for low-income customers over the next five winters.
. Customer Convenience. Columbia plans to install Automated Meter Reading devices on all of its meters and, eventually, begin reading meters every month. This will eliminate calculated bills. For customers with indoor meters, this will eliminate the need to make meter-reader access arrangements.

The commission's rate order also approves a funding source which will support Columbia's riser replacement, customer service line replacement and accelerated main replacement programs, which began earlier this year.

These programs will be funded through an Infrastructure Replacement Program Rider. This charge would begin in May 2009 and would be capped at a maximum of $1.10 per month for the first year. This monthly charge could increase by up to $1.10 in 2010, and by a maximum of $1 in each of the following three years.

Customers benefit from the infrastructure programs because Columbia is now responsible for the service line from the curb to the meter, including risers. Prior to an April 2008 order by the PUCO, service lines and risers were the customer's responsibility.

In addition to approving terms of the settlement agreement, the PUCO approved a new rate structure which will allow Columbia to eventually collect its base rates through a fixed monthly delivery charge. Beginning this month, Columbia's monthly customer charge will increase from $6.50 to $12.16, while the usage-based charge will decline from nearly 14 cents per 100 cubic feet (Ccf) to less than 8 cents ($0.07911) per Ccf. Beginning in December 2009, the monthly delivery charge would increase to $17.81 and the usage-based charge will be eliminated.

Charges for the natural gas itself, which represent 80 percent of the average customer's bill, will continue to be billed based on usage.

"We realize that there's never a good time for a rate increase or higher bills for our customers," Partridge said. "But for the customer who reduces his or her gas usage through our new efficiency programs or the customer who doesn't have to spend $1,000 or more replacing their service line, the potential savings far exceed the modest increase in delivery charges."

Columbia Gas of Ohio, with headquarters in Columbus, is one of the nine energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). Serving approximately 1.4 million customers in 60 of Ohio's 88 counties, it is the largest natural gas utility in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve approximately 3.8 million gas and electric customers primarily in seven states.

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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Ken Stammen, (614) 460-6231

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Columbia Gas Participates in the Summit on Sustainability and the Environment

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

7/24/2008

Columbus, OHIO -- Columbia Gas invites the public to attend the Summit on Sustainability and the Environment. Local and national leaders will share innovative solutions to energy, land use and transportation issues in central Ohio at the second annual Summit.

Columbia Gas of Ohio is a sponsor of the event, which is presented by the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission.
It takes place September 11-13 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

Registration is now open.

Get more information about the Summit on Sustainability.

Columbia Gas of Ohio to File First Base Rate Case in 14 years

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Company has invested nearly $1 billion in distribution system since last case.
Infrastructure improvements to boost safety, reliability, customer convenience, Ohio economy
Proposal to include enhanced conservation programs

Columbus, Ohio - Columbia Gas of Ohio announced today that it intends to file its first base rate case since 1994.

Columbia's rate filing will address the safety and reliability of its natural gas delivery system, energy conservation, customer convenience, and promote economic development in Ohio.

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) will thoroughly review Columbia's proposal, to be filed in early March, before taking any action. The process will include public hearings throughout Columbia's service territory, where customers and other stakeholders may comment on the plan.

The company's proposal includes innovative features that will benefit its customers, including:

Safety and reliability enhancements. Columbia will ask the PUCO to approve funding of a 25-year program to replace approximately 4,000 miles of old steel and cast iron pipe with new pipe that doesn't corrode and is easier to repair if damaged. The result will be a system with fewer leaks, fewer outages, lower maintenance costs and more capacity to serve growing areas. In conjunction with mainline replacement, the company would replace about 350,000 steel service lines which are prone to corrosion and leaks.
Conservation programs. Columbia will work with the Ohio Consumers' Counsel, the PUCO staff and other stakeholders to create a comprehensive energy efficiency program that would offer customers help in reducing their gas usage and lowering the gas cost portion of their bills. Columbia's nationally recognized WarmChoice program, which provides home weatherization and energy efficiency services for low-income customers, would continue.
Customer convenience. The company will seek approval to install Automatic Meter Reading devices on its 380,000 indoor meters. Currently, customers with these meters must arrange for meter readers to get inside their home.

"We have managed to provide safe and reliable service without raising rates for 14 years," said Columbia Gas of Ohio President Jack Partridge. "But just like roads and bridges, our gas distribution infrastructure ages and declines. There are needs that must be addressed to ensure continued safe, reliable service for years to come."

"Our rate proposal will also provide our customers with tools to reduce their gas usage and lower their gas costs over time," he said. "We believe this plan is fair to both our customers and our shareholders, and provides a needed boost to Ohio's economy."

To fund the infrastructure investments, new technologies and programs that will benefit customers, Columbia will seek to increase base rates by approximately $82.4 million. The new rates would take effect in late 2008 and increase the average residential bill by about $5.64 per month.

Columbia's base rates generate the revenue needed to maintain and operate its 19,000-mile natural gas delivery system. Base rates represent about 23 percent of a customer's bill and the only portion of the bill where Columbia earns a profit. The company will propose gradually shifting its base rate charges to a flat monthly fee.

While natural gas commodity costs have increased in recent years, the company is prohibited by state law from earning a profit on commodity sales. Gas costs represent 77 percent of average customer bills. Columbia Gas of Ohio has invested about $800 million in its distribution system since its last base rate case. Since then, the company has found ways to do business more efficiently through technology and process improvements, and it has raised new revenues - which are shared with customers - through non-traditional sales of gas and pipeline capacity.

But like other natural gas utilities around the country, Columbia faces higher infrastructure costs, while at the same time gas usage declines have eroded the company's revenues.

"We have worked extremely hard at controlling our costs and identifying new revenue sources without raising rates," said Partridge. "But after 14 years, infrastructure investment needs make it necessary to adjust our revenues to match today's business realities."

View commonly asked questions and answers regarding the base rate case.