LOS ANGELES (KABC) — As Californians struggle to pay sky-high natural gas bills, utility access activists are encouraging people to turn to state regulators.
Mark Toney is executive director of The Utilities Reform Network, a nonprofit organization also known as TURN that works to ensure utilities are clean, safe and affordable.
He said people upset about the sudden increase in their SoCalGas bills should call and express their anger at the upcoming California Public Utilities Commission meeting Thursday.
“We’re just very concerned that this is getting out of hand and something needs to be done to mitigate these types of price spikes,” he told Eyewitness News.
According to SoCalGas, the wholesale price of natural gas has skyrocketed this winter and is now up 128% from December through January. The company warns customers that if their peak winter bill was about $130 last year, it will most likely jump to about $315 this year.
Crestline resident Dennis Duvall is recovering from triple bypass surgery and is suffering from lupus. These health issues keep him indoors 24/7 with the thermostat set at around 75 degrees.
His last bill was $918.75.
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“I have to pay for it,” he said. “I have to keep up the heat. It will be very difficult.”
Crestline’s Dave Miner just saw his gas bill skyrocket to $700.
“It’s taking money off my kids, it’s taking money off my grocery bill,” Miner said.
According to Toney, many California residents with medical conditions qualify for programs like Medical Baseline to reduce utility costs.
“You can sign up for the gas with Medical Baseline and get a reduced price and additional protection against disconnection if you default on your bill,” Toney said.
More fuel saving tips?
“Turn the thermostat down when your health and the health of your family allows it, rely a little more on sweaters, blankets, and close the vents in rooms you’re not using,” advises Toney.
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