Marcellus Shale Lowers Heating Bills

The Pittsburgh Tribune and Erie Times report natural gas prices are decreasing as we approach the winter months. Rates per thousand cubic feet are dropping across western Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania consumers have benefited from a 70 percent reduction in natural-gas prices since 2008, in large part due to the dramatic growth in shale gas. Last year, Marcellus gas production saved Pennsylvanians an estimated $633 million in utility costs, or about $200 for every family of four. The savings have been especially beneficial for low-income families, who spend almost a quarter of their after-tax income on energy.
The benefits of natural gas development are statewide. Any attack on affordable energy is an attack on Pennsylvanians' ability to heat their homes, run hot water and cook food for less.