EL PASO — As summer heat arrives, Texas Gas Service is urging customers to take steps now to manage energy use and avoid higher bills while explaining that recent rate increases came through a routine regulatory review.
Company: rate increases tied to periodic reviews
Safeena Khanmohamed, public relations manager for Texas Gas Service, said the utility raised rates during a periodic review process that is evaluated by regulators and the City of El Paso. The company says the adjustments are necessary to maintain reliable service.
“So we go through periodic rate reviews and did increase our rates at that time during the annual process that is reviewed by our regulators and by the City of El Paso,”
Khanmohamed acknowledged that bill increases can be difficult for customers but framed the changes as linked to the utility’s ability to continue delivering essential service. She also said she would look into whether the company’s communications about fees and rate changes need to be changed and follow up.
Summer usage typically lower; conservation advice offered
The company noted that natural gas consumption usually drops during warmer months and that lower usage is typically reflected in customer bills. To help customers reduce cooling costs and avoid stress on home systems, Texas Gas Service recommended conservation steps.
- Run heat-producing appliances like dishwashers and dryers after dark to ease peak afternoon cooling demand.
- Seal gaps around windows and doors to keep cool air in and warm air out.
- Close blinds during the hottest parts of the day to reduce solar heat gain.
- Lower water heater temperature for customers with natural gas water heaters.
| Issue | Company position |
|---|---|
| Recent bill increases | Result of periodic rate review approved by regulators and city |
| Summer gas usage | Typically lower; bills generally decline in summer |
| Customer communication | Company to review and follow up on notification practices |
Texas Gas Service’s guidance arrives amid local scrutiny: the company’s rate change prompted action by the El Paso City Council, which recently denied the proposed hike and placed new rates on hold for 45 days, according to related coverage. That pause gives city regulators and customers additional time to review the changes.
What this means for El Paso residents
For many households, the timing is important. Even though natural gas is used less for heating in summer, lingering concerns about delivery and customer charges that appeared on winter bills prompted questions from residents earlier this year. The company’s explanation emphasizes the regulatory process, while the council’s pause indicates local elected officials are closely watching how those decisions affect ratepayers.
Customers concerned about higher bills should review recent statements, compare usage month to month, and consider the conservation steps outlined by the utility. Those with questions about how rates are calculated or how fee changes were communicated may also contact the City of El Paso or the utility for more detail while the 45-day review is in effect.
Local regulators and city officials will play a central role in determining whether the changes remain in force after the pause. For now, Texas Gas Service is emphasizing conservation and promising to look into communication practices as it responds to customer concerns.
