Shopping for Natural Gas

With so many natural gas companies to choose from, finding a provider in Georgia can feel complicated—but we’re here to make it a little easier.  

Below, you’ll find all the info you need to understand Georgia’s natural gas market and choose the right company for you. 

In 1997, the Natural Gas Competition and Deregulation Act was passed in Georgia to avoid any one company monopolizing the natural gas industry. As a result, several natural gas providers now serve customers in Georgia, while utility companies like Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) own and care for gas lines and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the New York Mercantile Exchange, or NYMEX, determines the natural gas rates. 

What does this mean for you? As a consumer, you have the power to choose your natural gas marketer.  

1. Find out which natural gas suppliers deliver to your service area. 
2. Compare each company’s rates and plans. 
3. Read reviews from customers and ask around.  
4. Consider your natural gas supplier’s values and community impact. 

The first step in choosing a gas company is finding out which ones service your area.  
For a list of certified gas marketers in Georgia, visit the Public Service Commission. 

What is a good natural gas rate? It all depends on your needs and the type of plan you choose. Most natural gas companies offer a selection of plans that determine your rate. Gas South offers three plans: 

Fixed Rate: With a fixed-rate natural gas plan, the amount you pay per therm is locked in for the length of your contract. Your bill will increase or decrease depending on how much gas you use, but the cost per therm will not change.   

Variable Rate: Natural gas plans with a variable rate do not have a locked-in price per them. Instead, the cost per therm can change from month to month.  

Flat Fee: A flat payment plan is an excellent option for long-term customers who want the same bill every month. Gas South’s OnePrice Plan®, for example, is tailored to your home, allowing you to pay the same price each month with no hidden fees, no surprises and no need to monitor your thermostat when the weather is cold. 

Discounts: Depending on which company you choose, you may be eligible for special discounts on natural gas. For example, at Gas South, we offer senior and military discounts. 
 

When comparing natural gas providers, search online for reviews of the companies you’re considering. You might also ask friends, family or coworkers which gas supplier they use and how they feel about customer service, responsiveness and rate plans.  
 

Choosing the right provider isn’t just about rates—it’s also about values. Consider the impact your natural gas company has on its community. Do they have a mission that’s service and community-oriented?  
 
Search for a provider whose values align with your own and whose actions reflect those values. At Gas South, our mission is to Be A Fuel For Good, which is why we give 5% of profits to support children in need and have committed to investing $60 million to solar projects by the end of 2023. 

When is the right time to shop around for a natural gas provider? It’s never too early to start researching providers in your area, but there are a few times when it’s best to turn on your gas for the first time if you’re a new user or transfer if you’re an existing customer.  

If you’re moving to a new home or apartment, you may need to shop for utilities for the first time. If you already have a natural gas provider, this is a great time to compare suppliers, find out who covers your new service area and transfer if you need or want to. 

 
If you’re already a Gas South customer and you’re moving to a new location within our service area, transferring your agreement is easy. You can start, stop or transfer service online. 

If you’re on a fixed-rate plan, your contract will expire at the end of your six, 12 or 24-month agreement. At that time, you’ll automatically move to a variable rate plan, which may be more costly.  
 
Rate renewal is a good time to decide whether you want to continue your existing plan or switch to either a flat-fee or variable plan. If you wish to continue your fixed-rate plan, you can simply renew your agreement online.   

Some users prefer to use natural gas only when temperatures drop. This option is best for those who only need gas for heating purposes and not year-round needs like cooking or hot water. Learn more about how to turn on your natural gas here.