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Winter Ready

Forecasts are calling for extreme cold and the potential for measurable snowfall across much of our service territory. Colder weather means higher energy use as heating systems work harder to keep homes and businesses warm and safe.

With the frigid air on the way, Black Hills Energy is here to help you stay safe, be prepared and save energy. 

The bigger the temperature difference, the more your system works

Even though you might not have touched your thermostat, the workload on your heater increased as the temperature dropped. If your thermostat was set at 68 degrees and it was 18 degrees outside, it took an additional 50 degrees of heat and energy to make up that difference. Compared to a 48-degree day, your thermostat would only need to make up a 20-degree difference.

 

Frequently asked questions 

How does Black Hill Energy prepare for extreme weather events? 

Black Hills Energy’s planning begins long before these kinds of weather events through careful consideration of the energy supply needed to endure even the most extreme conditions. As the cold sets in and customer demands for energy increase, we're focused on continuing to deliver safe, reliable energy, while equipping our customers with ways to help reduce their usage. Make sure you’re following along on our social media channels like YouTube and Facebook. 

Black Hills Energy prepares for all emergency situations, including extreme weather. We have a plan in place and will execute that plan in partnership with local officials, state agencies, local employees, and employees from other states to provide customers the safe, reliable energy they’ve come to expect.

How will the extreme cold affect my natural gas bill? 

Higher commodity costs can occur when demand goes beyond reasonable supplies. Our natural gas system and our business continuity plans are designed with your safety as our top priority. In rare events, we have experienced significant commodity cost increases from our suppliers due to extremely high demand and natural gas production interruptions. 

We encourage all customers to practice conservation mindfulness to offset the higher demand and help limit the impact on their energy bills. Learn more about conservation tips and tricks.

How does extreme cold affect my electric bill? 

Usage is the largest portion of our energy bills and weather is the biggest factor in increased usage. When temperatures are exceptionally low and usage dramatically increases across the country, the law of supply and demand can create a temporary increase in commodity prices. Our system is designed to provide safe, reliable energy, even during Mother Nature's worst. To reduce any bill impacts from increased demand, we strongly encourage all customers to practice conservation behaviors and adopt energy efficiency habits. 

Does Black Hills Energy make a profit on the gas going to customers? 

No. The cost of a customer’s natural gas is passed on to our customers with no mark-ups. Our Gas Supply team continuously plans for abnormal demand and price changes to help minimize the financial impact to our customers by implementing a portfolio of gas purchase options.

What will Black Hills Energy do to support those in need of help paying their bills? 

The easiest way for families to access emergency assistance funds is to call their state 211, visit our payment assistance section to learn more.

Customers in the Black Hills Energy service territory are eligible for Black Hills Cares funds, a utility assistance program made possible by donations from fellow customers. The Black Hills Energy Foundation matches those donations at 100%. 

Budget Billing is a free, stable billing option offered by Black Hills Energy that makes bills more predictable by averaging the amount you pay each month to avoid spikes in your bill due to seasonal usage.

 

 

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