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Sioux Falls, S.D. – Jan. 16, 2024– South Dakotans are experiencing bitter cold, frigid wind chills and winter storms, conditions when energy demand increases.

Low and no cost energy efficiency actions are tools we can all use to help manage winter energy bills while we keep our homes warm and businesses operating this time of year.

• Check your hot water heater’s temperature. When it comes to the temperature setting, make sure it’s safe and efficient – 120 degrees F is where you want to be.
• Wrap hot water tanks and pipe insulation on the first 10 feet of the hot water pipe coming off the tank. Supplies can be purchased at most hardware stores.
• Inspect your windows and doors for air leaks and seal up drafts.
• Change your furnace filter and have your furnace and heating equipment checked to make sure it is working properly.
• Use a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature when away from your home and overnight. Use a programmable thermostat to manage the temperature when away from your home and overnight. Change your thermostat setting during the heating season to the lowest comfortable setting, which is 68°F for most people during the day. At night, turn your thermostat back 7-10 degrees.
• Install low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads.

NorthWestern Energy customers concerned about winter energy bills should reach out right away at northwesternenergy.com or 800-245-6977.  NorthWestern Energy offers billing and payment options that may help, as well as information about payment assistance programs.

Find more information and energy efficiency resources at www.northwesternenergy.com/billing-payment/ways-to-save/winter-energy-bills

Safety is our priority and NorthWestern Energy reminds customers to clean and clear natural gas meters after every snowstorm to keep it operating properly. Gently remove snow with your hands or a broom. Never use a shovel on a meter. Find more information at www.northwesternenergy.com/safety/natural-gas-propane-safety

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NorthWestern Energy provides essential energy infrastructure and valuable services that enrich lives and empower communities while serving as long-term partners to our customers and communities. We work to deliver safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions that create value for customers, communities, employees, and investors. We do this by providing low-cost and reliable service performed by highly-adaptable and skilled employees. We provide electricity and / or natural gas to approximately 764,200 customers in Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Yellowstone National Park. We have provided service in South Dakota and Nebraska since 1923 and in Montana since 2002.

Media Contacts:

Jo Dee Black

866-622-8081

jodee.black@northwestern.com