Gov't projects lower winter heating costs

[October 06, 2009]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- People who heat their homes with natural gas should spend about $105 less this winter than last season. Those using fuel oil or electric heat also will save.

The Energy Information Administration said Tuesday that lower fuel costs across the board and a milder winter should cut average heating costs for the upcoming winter season. The agency said households will pay on average $783 for natural gas and $1,821 for fuel oil. Households with electric heat will pay $933, and those using propane will spend $1,667.

The agency cautions that actual household costs could vary depending on local weather conditions, the size and energy efficiency of homes and the efficiency of heating equipment.

[Associated Press; By H. JOSEF HEBERT]

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