Consumers Energy sees drop in heating costs

JACKSON, Mich. (AP) -- Consumers Energy says it expects its natural gas customers to pay less for their home heating bill this winter. The Jackson-based utility made the announcement last month. Consumers projects heating costs will be about 3 percent less due to lower fuel prices. The estimate is based on normal weather patterns. The Jackson Citizen Patriot reports an average residential customer can expect to pay about $141 a month. That's down from $145 last winter. The utility provides natural gas service to 1.7 million customers in 45 counties in the Lower Peninsula. Published: Fri, Nov 4, 2011