Prepare Now to Protect Against Natural Gas Price Spikes in Winter

In the midst of warm temperatures and sunshine, now might not seem like the right time to think about keeping your business warm during the winter. However, preparing now could help you avoid seasonal price increases on your energy bill that can come with colder temperatures. If your business is located in Ohio, you can secure a fixed rate for your natural gas to stabilize your energy bill during the winter months.

What’s the benefit of securing your natural gas rate?

Utilities are unable to offer a fixed price for natural gas, which means you end up paying the fluctuating market price of this commodity. There are a variety of factors that impact the price of natural gas, including supply and demand, weather and more. Partnering with a supplier to secure a fixed natural gas rate locks in that component of your energy bill and lets you know what to expect for the duration of your contract.

When should I lock in my natural gas rate?

Demand for natural gas is at its highest in the winter when businesses and homeowners are trying to keep their buildings warm. With an increase in demand comes a decrease in supply and consequently an increase in price. Additionally, winter weather can be unpredictable and volatile weather can cause steep spikes in natural gas prices, like the Polar Vortex of 2014. Prices for natural gas tend to be lower in the fall and spring, before and after the winter months. Preparing now could protect your business from volatile winter pricing.

What do I do now?

It’s not too early to secure your fixed natural gas rate. AEP Energy offers a Fixed Price Plan for Natural Gas that lets you do just that. If you’re interested in learning more, contact 1-877-648-1936 to speak with one of our Small Business Energy Consultants.

AEP Energy does not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, freedom from error, or value of any information herein. The information presented is provided “as is”, “as available”, and for informational purposes only, speaks only to events or circumstances on or before the date it is presented, and should not be construed as advice, a recommendation, or a guarantee of future results. AEP Energy disclaims any and all liabilities and warranties related hereto, including any obligation to update or correct the information herein. Summaries and website links included herein (collectively, “Links”) are not under AEP Energy’s control and are provided for reference only and not for commercial purposes. AEP Energy does not endorse or approve of the Links or related information and does not provide any warranty of any kind or nature related thereto.

Up Next

Why Small Businesses Thrive When They Go Local: The Power of Community-Based Vendors

Small Business

In today’s fast-paced, globalized economy, it’s easy to overlook the value of what’s right in our own backyard. But for small businesses, partnering with local vendors and tapping into community resources can be a game-changer. Whether you’re sourcing materials, hiring services, or building partnerships, working locally offers a host of benefits that go far beyond …

What PJM’s 2026/2027 Capacity Auction Means for Your Business’s Energy Costs

Small Business

As a small business owner, staying informed about energy market trends can help you make smarter decisions about your electricity usage and costs. The results of the latest capacity auction for the 2026/2027 planning year demonstrate the trend that energy demand will continue to rise while incentivizing increasing supply. What This Means for Your Business …