All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

PSC advises of assistance for rising utility bills

CHARLESTON, WV – The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) has reported international natural gas and liquefied natural gas prices hit record highs in the last quarter of 2021 and first half of 2022.

Natural gas utility companies in West Virginia are currently filing their annual 30C cases with the PSC to adjust the purchased gas portion of their rates. Some of those requests are as much as 173% above the rates the Commission approved last year.

The Commission does not regulate the price of natural gas; that price is determined by competitive markets. The EIA also reports that the large increase in natural gas fuel costs over the past year is driving up wholesale electricity prices throughout the United States.

The Public Service Commission is concerned about the effect these increasing prices are having and is advising customers where they can look for assistance.

Customers facing difficulties paying their utility bills should first contact WV211 to see what financial assistance may be available in their area, including churches and local charities.

Customers should also contact their local West Virginia DHHR office to apply for assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a federally funded program that helps low-income citizens pay for home heating and cooling, weatherizing your home and minor energy-related home repairs.

DHHR also administers the 20% Discount Program, available from November through March to qualifying low-income customers.

Dollar Energy’s West Virginia Utility Assistance Program may be able to provide a one-time grant to help pay electric, gas or water bills. If LIHEAP is available, you must apply for that program before applying for the Dollar Energy program. A link to Dollar Energy may be found on the PSC website: www.psc.state.wv.us.

The West Virginia Housing Development Fund administers assistance programs for renters and homeowners who are struggling because of the pandemic or COVID-19. The Mountaineer Rental Assistance Program and the West Virginia Homeowner Rescue Program can help with utility bill payments, rent and mortgage assistance. Detailed information, including eligibility requirements, are on the West Virginia Housing Development Fund website at www.wvhdf.com.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur sets ambitious goals for growth and outreach

The Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur unveiled an ambitious multi-year plan to grow club membership, boost outreach through digital and in-person initiatives, expand fundraising, and increase community involvement and accessibility.

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield, beloved husband, father, and grandfather known for his kindness and humor, passed peacefully at home on April 5, 2025, leaving behind a devoted family and many friends.

Ella Margaret Moore

Ella Margaret Moore, a devoted Christian and active member of Reger United Methodist Church who leaves behind a large, loving family, passed away peacefully at age 91 in Buckhannon.

Post 7 to host recognize veterans Monday during Jr. Legion game, Sr. league team opens Area 2 Tournament on Tuesday

Buckhannon Post 7 will honor veterans during the Junior Legion team’s final home game Monday before the Senior League team begins Area 2 Tournament play Tuesday, following a challenging regular season.

Buckhannon City Council weighs options for spending $351,000 carryover

Buckhannon City Council will hold a special meeting July 15 to discuss how to allocate $351,000 of a $1.1 million budget carryover.

Buckhannon Sanitary Board Agenda: July 17, 2025

The Buckhannon Sanitary Board has released the agenda for its upcoming meeting on July 17, 2025.
Summer basketball

Summer league basketball wraps up week two

Week two of the Upshur County Summer Basketball League concluded with standout scoring performances and multiple games, including two forfeits by Country Roads Physical Therapy.

City council to review water board’s recommendation for new water treatment plant

The Buckhannon Water Board has recommended moving forward with a new water treatment plant and related infrastructure upgrades, sending a proposal to the city council for approval.

Gail Lovel Zickefoose

Gail L. Zickefoose, a dedicated educator, community leader, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at age 83 after a long illness, leaving a legacy of service, kindness, and devotion to others.