Projections from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) show that most Wisconsinites could see their heating bills drop in the coming months if the state experiences an average winter, but overall home heating prices are expected to remain close to record levels, according to Wisconsin Public Radio.
NEADA is forecasting that natural gas prices will decrease by around 7.8% compared to last winter. Propane and heating oil costs will go up by 4.2% and 8.7%, respectively, and electricity heating costs will increase by 1.2%.
Statewide, roughly 70% of households heat their homes with natural gas, 12% use electricity, and the remaining 18% use other sources. Electricity and natural gas are usually provided by utilities; propane and heating oil are typically bought from a local provider.
Natural gas costs are expected to drop after a peak last year, but they are still projected to hit their second-highest levels since at least 2014 this heating season. A variety of global factors, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have contributed to the higher prices.
Additionally, Wisconsin is expected to have a colder winter than last year, and severity of winter weather has an impact on bills.
