It may also be helpful to understand the billing rate approval process.
Of the charges described, the Customer Charge and Base Rate component of the Delivery Charge are reviewed and approved by the NJ Board of Public Utilities (“BPU”) on a periodic basis when the Company seeks a change in a rate case filing with the BPU.
All other components of the Delivery Charge may change annually based on proposals by the Company that are approved by the BPU.
Rate changes can occur throughout the year depending on when the BPU approves each filing.
The monthly Customer Charge is prorated based on the number of days in the billing cycle. The Delivery Charge and Gas Charges (BGSS) are calculated by multiplying the total therms used in a month by the rate per therm.
The amount of gas you consume directly impacts your Delivery Charge and Gas Charges (BGSS); however, the amount of gas you use does not impact your Customer Charge. Typically, a residential customer will consume more gas in winter heating months since temperatures are colder and require more gas use to keep your home warm. Your bill shows a comparison of temperatures for the same period in the previous year.
Energy Efficiency programs can help you save energy and money. Please visit the SJG website for a list and description of Energy Efficiency programs exclusively for SJG customers at southjerseygas.com/SaveEnergy.