HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has released its 2024 Winter Reliability Overview Reports from Pennsylvania’s major natural gas distribution companies, along with a Readiness Report from the Energy Association of Pennsylvania (EAP).

These reports provide key insights into the utilities’ readiness to meet the energy needs of residential and business customers during the upcoming heating season.

According to EAP, total natural gas consumption across all sectors is forecast to decrease by 1.8% compared to last winter, with demand expected to fall to 234.7 billion cubic feet (Bcf), compared to the 238.9 Bcf forecast for the prior heating season. For residential consumers, the energy association projects that home heating costs will be slightly higher—approximately 1% more than last winter.

All companies reported sufficient supplies and detailed plans to ensure reliable service throughout the winter. UGI Utilities noted a 25% reduction in Class B leaks — classified as “in-progress” leaks — over the past three years, underscoring ongoing infrastructure improvements.

Companies highlighted a variety of internal readiness exercises conducted ahead of the winter heating season. PECO emphasized its summer emergency preparedness drills designed to ensure smooth operations during potential extreme weather events.

Natural gas companies affirmed their ability to meet the needs of natural gas-fired generators this winter. However, the PUC’s Technical Utility Services (TUS) division noted that significant upstream supply disruptions, beyond the control of the companies, could lead to curtailments for firm industrial and generation customers. Natural gas companies emphasized having communication and coordination plans in place for any affected customers in such scenarios.

Reports from the natural gas companies can be viewed in the Reliability section of the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov