Big Changes To Dayton Natural Gas Utility
Recently, CenterPoint Energy stated it was selling its Dayton gas utility. Of course, no one likes hearing that big changes are coming to their natural gas prices. But keeping ahead of changes can help all Ohio gas customers stay ahead of rate hikes. So, let’s see why a new gas utility is coming to Dayton and how it affects your gas service.
National Fuel Takes Over CenterPoint
Over one hundred years ago in 1925, Dayton Power and Light (DPL) began providing gas service to western Ohio. Then in 2000, DPL sold its gas business to Vectren Energy of Indiana. In 2021, CenterPoint Energy bought Vectren Energy and soon after retired the brand name. But, it kept “Vectren Energy Delivery of Ohio” as the utility’s business name. Then this past June, PUCO approved the utility’s sale to National Fuel Gas Company.
Why Buy the Dayton Natural Gas Utility?
National Fuel Gas Company was founded in 1902. The company operated natural gas utilities in western Pennsylvania and western New York state. The $2.6 billion deal with CenterPoint doubles the rate base for National Fuel. Over night, the company grew by 335,000 new customers and about 5,900 miles of pipeline.
The company explains the deal was part of a strategy to expand over the next decade. This acquisition also gives the company gas assets in a state that favors natural gas business. In short, doing business in Ohio may offer better and more stable profits over time.
Will Dayton Natural Gas Prices Change?
The sale will close in late October. At first blush, National Fuel Gas may have better access to gas supplies than most utilities. Still, gas rates tend to be volatile in winter. So for now, it’s too early to see how this could effect future gas prices. For that reason, we urge Dayton gas shoppers to compare rates and shop around for the cheapest natural gas possible.
You can always start shopping right here at https://www.ohenergyratings.com. You can also count on us for the news and tips that could affect your bills.