In 2000, the Kentucky Public Service Commission approved a natural gas retail choice pilot program called "Columbia Customer Choice." The program allows customers of Columbia Gas of Kentucky to choose an alternative gas supplier. Customers in the Columbia service area can compare the various options available from approved natural gas marketers and choose to purchase gas from an alternative supplier, or from Columbia Gas. The pilot program is limited to the Columbia service area.
The program has been highly successful, as evidenced by the more than 28,000 households and businesses in central and eastern Kentucky that now participate. But there are a couple simple changes that would make natural gas service in Kentucky even better.
First, the Columbia choice program should be made permanent. Right now, the Columbia program is set to expire in less than two years. Second, choice programs should be expanded so that everyone in Kentucky can participate. Currently, only those customers in the Columbia Gas service area can enroll. Opening up the gas market statewide would attract more suppliers and greater competition. This could mean lower prices and even more choices for Kentucky consumers!
These changes require legislative action, meaning the Kentucky General Assembly must act. But before they act, they must hear from you! And there is any easy way to show your support: join Kentucky Consumers for Energy Competition and add your voice to the hundreds of others that have already signed up. Click here to join!
