BRANSON, Mo. (Feb. 18, 2026) — As winter weather drives higher natural gas usage and household bills, Summit Natural Gas of Missouri, a subsidiary of Summit Utilities, reminds customers about payment assistance resources, billing options, and energy-efficiency tips designed to help manage winter energy costs and stay comfortable throughout the season.
"Winter weather can drive higher energy bills, and we want our customers to feel supported and prepared," said Eliza Castillo, vice president of customer experience and marketing for Summit Utilities. "From simple home tips to payment assistance programs, we're here to help customers stay comfortable and in control of their energy costs."
Budget Billing: Smooths seasonal bill fluctuations by spreading annual costs evenly over 12 months.
Flexible Payment Arrangements: Eligible customers may be able to spread past-due balances over monthly installments to help avoid service interruptions.
Online Account Management: Track and pay bills conveniently online through a secure customer portal that's available 24/7.
AutoPay: Safe, reliable, convenient way to pay bill.
Low-Income Energy Assistance Programs (LIHEAP): This federally funded program helps pay heating costs for eligible customers. Learn more about the program and how to apply.
Payment Assistance Programs: Support for qualifying customers, including local, state, and nonprofit programs such as 211.
Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program (LIWAP): Programs to help improve home efficiency, including insulation and draft sealing.
Recognizing that there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to bill payment and reducing usage, Summit offers additional tips for proactively managing energy costs.
Service heating systems: Ensure furnaces are inspected by licensed technicians for safe and efficient operation.
Thermostat adjustments: Health-allowing, keep the home at about 68°F while awake and lower when asleep or away.
Use natural sunlight: Open curtains during the day for heat and close them at night to retain warmth.
Seal air leaks: Apply weatherstripping or caulking around doors and windows.
Ceiling fan adjustments: Run fans clockwise at low speed to push warm air downward.
Replace air filters: Swap filters every 1–3 months to maintain efficient airflow.
Customers can learn more about assistance programs, payment options and energy-efficiency resources by contacting customer service.
Summit Utilities, Inc. owns natural gas distribution subsidiaries that operate in Arkansas, Colorado, Maine, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. The company operates with a commitment to delivering clean, reliable, and affordable natural gas to businesses and residents in six states through Arkansas Oklahoma Gas, Colorado Natural Gas, Summit Natural Gas of Maine, Summit Natural Gas of Missouri, Summit Utilities Arkansas, and Summit Utilities Oklahoma. Each of Summit's natural gas distribution and transmission subsidiaries constructs and operates natural gas distribution systems to support economic development through its commitment to reliability, safety practices, exceptional customer service, and community engagement. Overall, Summit entities serve approximately 625,000 customers and operate more than 23,400 miles of pipeline.
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