PUC looking to help consumers as they receive higher energy bill for February

PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- Homeowners and businesses could feel some real gas pains when they get their energy bills for February.

Due to a massive cold outbreak, natural gas usage set records from North Dakota to Texas.

Gas prices soared due to heavy demand. South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Chairman Chris Nelson says energy companies will pass that increased cost on to customers.

During a special PUC meeting, Nelson says they questioned energy companies about gas distribution problems.

Nelson says there will be an ongoing review of what happened during the February cold outbreak.

Most energy companies will spread out payments from February for the next few months.