Summit Natural Gas of Maine Helps Customers Manage Winter Energy Costs

PORTLAND, Maine (Feb. 18, 2026) – As winter weather drives higher natural gas usage and household bills, Summit Natural Gas of Maine, a subsidiary of Summit Utilities, reminds customers about payment assistance resources, variety of billing options, and energy-efficiency tips designed to help customers manage costs and stay warm.

"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."

Key support options for customers include:

Flexible Payment Plans: Eligible customers may be able to spread past-due balances over monthly installments to help avoid service interruptions.

Budget Billing: Smooth seasonal fluctuations by averaging natural gas costs into consistent monthly payments.

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 Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Provides financial support to help pay energy bills for qualifying households.

Summit Low-Income Program: Offers an additional 28 percent discount on service charges for LIHEAP-enrolled customers. Customers who qualify for HEAP through the Maine State Housing Authority will be automatically enrolled once funds are received, with the discount reflected as a credit on future bills.

MaineHousing Weatherization Program: Grants to improve home efficiency through insulation, weatherstripping, and other energy-saving upgrades.

211 Maine Referral Service: Connects customers to additional nonprofit and community resources for assistance.

Recognizing that there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to bill payment and reducing usage, Summit offers additional tools and tips for proactively managing energy costs.

Winter Energy-Saving Tips:

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 payment assistance, billing options, and energy-saving resources by contacting customer service.

About Summit Utilities, Inc.

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.