A Guide To Deregulated Gas
Indiana is a state that relies heavily on natural gas, with over 80% of its electricity coming from gas-fired power plants. As a result, the state has been at the forefront of the deregulation movement, allowing consumers to choose their gas supplier. Deregulation has given consumers the opportunity to find the best deal on their gas supply, but it has also made the process of choosing a supplier more complex. In this article, we will provide a brief history of deregulation in Indiana and give tips on how to choose the best gas supplier.
Brief History of Deregulation in Indiana:
Deregulation in Indiana began in 2000 when the state passed a law that allowed consumers to choose their gas supplier. The law aimed to increase competition among gas suppliers and ultimately lower prices for consumers. Since then, several gas suppliers have entered the market, and consumers can choose from a variety of options.
One of the biggest advantages of deregulation is that it allows consumers to shop around for the best deal on their gas supply. Prior to deregulation, consumers were locked into a single gas supplier and had little choice when it came to pricing. Deregulation has changed this, giving consumers the power to choose their supplier based on price, customer service, and other factors.
Choosing the Best Gas Supplier in Indiana:
- Understand Your Usage: Before choosing a gas supplier, it’s essential to understand your gas usage. Knowing how much gas you use and when you use it can help you choose a supplier that offers the best rates.
- Compare Rates: Once you know your usage, compare rates from different gas suppliers. Be sure to compare not only the price per unit of gas but also any additional fees or charges that may apply.
- Consider Contract Terms: Many gas suppliers offer contracts with different terms. Consider factors such as contract length and whether there are penalties for canceling the contract early.
- Check for Hidden Fees: Some gas suppliers may have hidden fees, such as fees for late payments or fees for canceling a contract early. Be sure to read the fine print and understand all fees associated with a supplier before signing up.
- Research Customer Service: Finally, it’s essential to research a gas supplier’s customer service. Look for reviews online and check the supplier’s rating with the Better Business Bureau. A supplier with excellent customer service can help make the process of switching suppliers smoother and easier.
Relevant Statistics and Figures Specific to Indiana:
- Indiana is the fifth-largest consumer of natural gas in the United States.
- The state has 12 natural gas storage facilities.
- As of 2020, there were 17 active gas suppliers in Indiana.
Understanding these statistics and figures can give consumers a better understanding of the gas market in Indiana. For example, the fact that there are 17 active gas suppliers in the state means that consumers have a variety of options when it comes to choosing a supplier. Additionally, the fact that Indiana is one of the largest consumers of natural gas in the country highlights the importance of finding the best deal on gas supply.
What projects are there in the state of Indiana?
There are several deregulated gas projects underway in the state of Indiana, aimed at increasing competition and improving access to natural gas for consumers.
One such project is the Indiana Gasification Project, a proposed facility that would convert coal into substitute natural gas (SNG). The project, which has been in development since 2001, aims to produce up to 40 billion cubic feet of SNG per year and reduce Indiana’s dependence on natural gas imports. However, the project has faced significant legal and financial challenges and has yet to come to fruition.
Another project is the Northern Indiana Public Service Company’s (NIPSCO) ongoing modernization plan, which includes upgrading gas infrastructure and increasing the use of renewable natural gas. The plan, which was approved by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission in 2018, aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve the reliability of gas service in the region.
Additionally, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has encouraged the development of renewable natural gas (RNG) in the state. RNG is produced from organic waste such as agricultural residue, food waste, and sewage, and can be injected into existing natural gas pipelines. This not only reduces waste and greenhouse gas emissions but also increases the supply of natural gas for consumers.
These projects demonstrate Indiana’s commitment to deregulated gas and the development of innovative solutions to meet the state’s energy needs. As these projects continue to evolve, they have the potential to create new opportunities for gas suppliers and consumers alike.
What else might you need to know?
In addition to considering the factors mentioned above, it is also important to take a look at the contract terms offered by the gas supplier. This includes the length of the contract, the cancellation policy, and any additional fees or charges. Consumers should carefully review the contract terms to ensure that they are getting the best deal possible.
Another important consideration when choosing a gas supplier in Indiana is customer service. Consumers should research the supplier’s reputation for customer service, including how easy it is to get in touch with them and how quickly they respond to inquiries or concerns. It may also be helpful to look for reviews from other customers to get an idea of their experiences with the supplier.