Billing terms

Here is an explanation of the terms used on your monthly We Energies bill:

Avoids high seasonal bills by distributing your costs evenly over the whole year.
The volume of gas measured by your gas meter.
A measure of the need for air conditioning (cooling) based on temperature. Cooling degree days are calculated by subtracting 65 degrees Fahrenheit from the average daily temperature.
The increase or decrease in the cost of fuel from the amount included in the current rates.
An estimated reading is based on actual past use, seasonal trends and weather. Any difference between the estimated reading and the actual one will be made up the next time the meter is read.
See Local Distribution Service.
The purchase and management of gas supplies for our customers, as well as the carrying costs of purchasing gas supplies in the summer and storing these gas supplies until winter.
The purchase, transportation and storage of gas, as well as the acquisition and management of gas supplies for our customers; includes "Gas Supply Acquisition Service" and "Natural Gas Costs."
A measure of the need for heating based on temperature. Heating degree days are calculated by subtracting the average daily temperature from 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
A measurement of electric energy. One kWh will light a 100 watt bulb for 10 hours.
Commission authorized charge on unpaid service balances that are past due.
The safe, reliable transportation of gas across the We Energies gas distribution system to customers, including metering, billing and customer service; includes both "Fixed" and "Volumetric" charges to more accurately match the actual costs of providing these services. Fixed Charges do not vary with your usage; Volumetric Charges will vary with your usage.
Fee to help fund energy-efficiency programs.
The actual costs of the natural gas itself, including the costs of interstate pipeline transportation and storage services.
A measurement of the amount of heat energy in natural gas, equal to 100,000 BTUs. A BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
See Local Distribution Service.
Fee required by a Wisconsin Legislative budget bill to help fund state District Attorney expenses. The fee will appear on bills from September 2009 through June 2011.
Fee to help fund low-income energy assistance programs, such as heating assistance, weatherization and energy crises.