Nicor Gas Reports Strong Performance During Winter Storm Fern, Urges Safety Precautions (Naperville, IL) – As Winter Storm Fern brought subzero temperatures and dangerous wind chills across northern Illinois this week, Nicor Gas says it successfully delivered natural gas to millions of customers while preparing for continued extreme cold.
During a peak delivery hour between 7 and 8 a.m. Friday, Nicor Gas supplied more than 194,000 MMBtu of natural gas to approximately 2.3 million customers across more than 650 communities in Northern Illinois, according to the utility. Company officials said that volume was roughly equivalent to 57,000 megawatts of electricity and represented about 90% of the peak hourly load reached during the company’s record-setting polar vortex event. About one-third of the energy delivered during that hour came from Nicor Gas’ natural gas storage system.
“Nicor Gas’ ability to safely and reliably deliver the life-sustaining energy our customers and communities rely on is critical to Illinois’ energy security,” said Tim Hermann, vice president of gas operations at Nicor Gas.
With forecasts calling for continued cold weather and below-zero wind chills into next week, the company said crews remain on standby around the clock to meet customer demand and respond to emergencies.
Nicor Gas also reminded residents to be cautious during winter storms, noting that heavy snow and ice can weigh down tree limbs and power lines, potentially damaging natural gas meters or exposing underground gas lines. If a meter is damaged or a gas line is exposed, residents are advised to leave the area immediately and call 911 or Nicor Gas’ 24-hour emergency response line at 888-642-6748 from a safe location.
Customers clearing snow and ice around gas meters should use their hands or a broom, not shovels or hard objects, and should never kick or strike meters or piping, the company said.
The utility also offered several safety reminders related to gas leaks, appliances and carbon monoxide. Residents who smell the “rotten egg” odor associated with natural gas or suspect carbon monoxide should leave the area immediately and contact emergency services. Officials emphasized that people should not attempt to locate leaks themselves, use phones in areas where gas is present, or operate anything that could cause a spark.
Nicor Gas warned against using ovens or stovetops to heat homes and urged customers to have furnaces, water heaters and other gas appliances inspected annually by licensed professionals. Outdoor vents and air intakes should be kept clear of snow and ice to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, and gas-powered generators should never be used indoors or in enclosed spaces.
In addition to safety guidance, Nicor Gas highlighted resources aimed at helping customers manage energy costs during the winter. The company offers bill payment assistance programs, energy efficiency tools and weatherization tips designed to reduce consumption and save money.
Suggestions include opening curtains during the day to take advantage of sunlight, closing them at night to reduce drafts, keeping furniture and other items away from heating sources, adjusting thermostats, and sealing drafty doors, windows and exterior wall openings.
Company officials said small steps taken at home can add up to meaningful savings while helping households stay safe and warm during prolonged winter weather.
Nicor Gas Reports Strong Performance During Winter Storm Fern, Urges Safety Precautions
