Energy prices expected to spike this winter

LIBERTY, NY — It’s going to be costly to heat this winter.

According to a statement from Agway Energy Products in Liberty, consumers will likely see higher heating bills this winter, up as much as 45 percent for heating oil, 19 percent for natural gas and 22 percent for propane.

Agway said its warning was based on a forecast released recently by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) of the U.S. Department of Energy.

Last year’s mild winter, which was up to 20 percent warmer than normal, significantly reduced the demand on energy supplies. This winter’s projected colder weather will cause demand to increase and prices are expected to rise accordingly.

“One of the best ways to combat higher energy costs is to make sure you are being as efficient as possible in your energy use,” said Scott Sicular, market manager for Agway.

To that end, Agway is offering a free brochure of energy savings tips. To request a brochure, visit the Agway Energy Products website at www.agwayenergy.com.

Annual tune-ups, which will increase the heating system’s efficiency, are also recommended. Sicular noted that having a budget payment plan, where consumers can lock in the same monthly payment amount throughout the year, is another way to help spread the high cost of heating this winter.