Palo Alto's first gas rate increase in six years, a 15 percent increase, went into effect on August 1, 2000. Over the last six years, CPAU has reduced its gas rates by two percent in 1996 and seven percent in 1998. Depending on market conditions, a third gas rate increase of approximately 25-35 percent between April and July of next year is likely. To assist customers in managing their natural gas use, a variety of outreach procedures have been developed. News releases and bill inserts have been developed to provide early notification of potential rate impacts and offer suggestions on how to manage natural gas use in the home.
Financial assistance is available to customers experiencing hardship due to increasing rates.
Information about CPAU loans and rebates for high efficiency gas furnaces, insulation, water heaters, heat pumps, programmable thermostats, and dual pane windows has also been made available. Copyright 2001, City of Palo Alto, All rights reserved.