All indicators point to a colder winter than in recent years.
Unfortunately, the cost of natural gas and home heating fuels are also projected to be higher than they have been. Industry analysts have estimated that fuel costs may rise by 25 percent, resulting in commensurately higher home heating bills. According to Niagara Mohawk, market prices for natural gas used to supply heating demands are twice as much as they were just a year ago. Obviously, if higher supply prices continue as expected and colder weather hits as predicted, consumption will increase and consumers will see the difference in their monthly bills. In recognition of this likely eventuality, the federal government has increased the amount of funds available to eligible residents in New York for assistance in paying home heating bills this winter.