(Merrillville, IN) - NIPSCO is forecasting higher home heating bills this winter. Natural gas residential customers can expect a 15 percent increase in their bills from last year based on current market projections under normal winter weather, according to NIPSCO.

In contrast, NIPSCO reported the cost forecast for this winter is 17 percent lower than the peak experienced in 2022.

Each year, NIPSCO and other Indiana energy companies provide a forecast for home heating bills during the upcoming winter months.  Projections are based on market forecasts, supply trends and storage levels, as well as normal weather forecasts.

If temperatures are colder or warmer than normal, usage amounts and bills could differ, NIPSCO said.