In December residents of Gallitzin began transitioning to natural gas.
So far about 120 residents are using People’s Natural Gas company but their rate is nearly double surrounding regions and some residents are upset.
Ken Bradley, Owner of Bradley and Sons, a plumbing and heating company said new business brings him to the borough to install furnaces and gas lines.
But he said some people have said they’re concerned about the heat source.
“When these people started getting bills it was twice as much than what mine is in Cresson,” Bradley said.
On Wednesday staff from People’s Natural Gas hosted an open door event to explain why.
Matthew Szalankiewicz, a sales representative for the company, said “their delivery rate comes from the People’s TWP tariff which is a little greater than the People’s tariff.”
He said the two are ultimately different companies with different billing systems.
The rate of People’s TWP is $7.1523.
Whereas those under regular People’s lines have a rate of $3.7624.
“There are so many variables beyond usage, habits that can effect the bill even if you’re comparing the same exact company,” Szalankiewicz said.
He said each bill varies depending on the underground systems being used.
TWP was picked due to it’s cost effectiveness and allowance for the pipes.
Bradley said it’s important customers understand the breakdown otherwise it could put his business in jeopardy,
“If people stop installing furnaces then that would effect our business there because it’s been good for our business…It’s been generating a lot of work for us,” Bradley said.
People’s natural gas said the TWP rate will also go into effect in Nanty Glo, Unity, and Colver.
There will be another opportunity to ask questions about your bill at the Gallitzin Borough office next Tuesday from 3-6 pm..