ELKHART, IND. (WOWO) NIPSCO customers across Michiana are reporting steep increases in their utility bills, with some describing the charges as “skyrocketing and inexplicable.”

The utility company attributes the rise to colder weather, which increases natural gas usage, and to fluctuations in natural gas market prices. NIPSCO bills are divided into two main components: delivery charges for bringing gas to customers and the cost of the natural gas itself. While the company controls delivery, it does not set or mark up the cost of the gas.

NIPSCO Communications Manager Jessica Cantarelli said, “Colder temperatures mean increased natural gas usage, which impacts the delivery portion of customers’ bills.”

To assist customers struggling with higher bills, NIPSCO offers programs like “The Budget Plan” and other financial support options. Customers can learn more by visiting NIPSCO.com/BudgetPlan or NIPSCO.com/FinancialSupport.