U.S. Predicts Lower Heating Bills This Winter Due to Weather

Cooler temperatures should cut heating bills this winter, as few expect the same harsh weather that chilled much of the nation last year. Low temperatures across the Midwest, South and East forced people to use more heat last winter and the price of some fuels soared because of shortages. This year everyone is likely to get a little break on their bills from the weather, and some residents will see substantial price declines too. Heating oil prices are the lowest they've been in four years, and propane prices have fallen far from their peaks last winter. Prices for natural gas and electricity should be higher this winter. But the combined 88% of U.S. households that rely on them for heat should still see lower bills because of lower demand, assuming the weather cooperates.