ASK CONSUMER 6: What are all these charges on my gas bill?

Several viewers have telephoned and written letters to Consumer 6 wanting to know more about the new charges listed on their gas bills from Oklahoma Natural Gas.<br><br>O-N-G says the charges have always

Tuesday, January 16th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Several viewers have telephoned and written letters to Consumer 6 wanting to know more about the new charges listed on their gas bills from Oklahoma Natural Gas.

O-N-G says the charges have always been there, it just began listing each one last summer. Here's the company's explanation of each charge. The customer charge covers part of O-N-G's cost to keep the customers connected to the gas distribution system, check meters and perform other services. The company says these costs are fixed, and are not related to the amount of gas a customer uses.

The delivery fee covers transportation, and costs related to the actual delivery of the natural gas. This fee does change depending on the amount of gas a customer uses.

Riders and other fees are authorized expenses related to customer service.
The cost of gas is the amount O-N-G paid. The company says it does not make a profit on the sale of the gas. The other fees are taxes the company is legally required to pay. O-N-G told us that while the cost of natural gas is at an all time high, the company has actually lowered its service fees.

If you have any questions for ask Consumer 6, call our tipline at 732-6111 or send an e-mail to dwhite@kotv.com.