Enhancing natural gas affordability, lower wholesale energy prices will result in decreased rates this winter thanks to UniSource Energy Services’ (UES) request for a temporary bill credit, approved by the Arizona Corporation Commission on Tuesday.

The Purchased Gas Adjustor (PGA) credit of 10 cents per therm will be applied to bills from Nov. 1 through April 30, 2016, helping to lower costs during the season when residential gas use typically peaks.

Although the credit is expected to reduce average residential customers’ bills by only $7.20 per month, UES predicts that customers will use at least 15 percent more natural gas this coming winter because last winter was among the warmest on record. Usage also can vary depending on location; customers with higher usage should expect higher bills.

UES offers several methods to help customers manage their winter gas bills. Its Budget Billing program allows customers to pay their natural gas bills in equal monthly installments, eliminating fluctuations; and its Customer Assistance Residential Energy Support (CARES) Program offers monthly discounts for limited-income customers needing help to cover their energy costs.

UES also works with community organizations to provide limited, emergency bill payment assistance for qualifying customers in financial distress.

UES provides safe, reliable natural gas and electric service to more than 243,000 customers across Arizona.