Salem City Manager Rex Barbee is asking all non-essential Salem businesses to close their operations through Thursday and for everyone to lower their thermostat below 70 degrees to minimize gas usage. He reports the current extreme cold weather has created a severe problem with natural gas supplies across the Midwest.
The problem is resulting in lower natural gas pressure. In addition, gas prices are taking a huge jump at this time and if the city’s consumption exceeds the surplus amount there could also be large penalties. The end result could be higher gas bills for residential and commercial customers.
Barbee says everyone’s cooperation is appreciated.
Meanwhile, Ameren Illinois officials say they have an adequate supply of natural gas due to their storage facilities. However, they encourage everyone to use home heat and natural gas appliances conservatively as a way to lessen the strain on the country’s natural gas system.
