Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Minnesota News Network
St. Paul, Minn.

Heating costs less than expected

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Just a few months ago, the state's largest utilities were estimating that customers could pay up to 45 percent more to heat their homes this winter with natural gas.

But Xcel Energy's, Patrick Boland, says the situation is looking better.

"We were anticipating earlier this summer that prices were going to be significantly higher. And I think with everything with the economy and the overall status of natural gas in the country the prices have come down quite a bit," Boland said.

Boland said consumers can do several things to lower their heating costs. He recommends using a programmable thermostat, which he said has saved some customers as much as 20 percent on heating costs.

Boland also suggesting winterizing your home. That includes putting plastic on windows, applying weather stripping around doors, and getting an insulating blanket for the water heater.