How does National Grid's budget billing program work?

National Grid's budget billing program offers customers a way to manage their energy costs by spreading payments over a twelve-month period. This program is designed to help households avoid the financial shock of fluctuating monthly bills, especially during peak consumption seasons. Through this program, National Grid calculates an average monthly payment based on a customer's past energy usage and account history. Each year, National Grid reviews the customer's account and may adjust the monthly payment amount based on actual energy usage and any changes in rates. The goal is to provide a stable, predictable monthly payment for the entirety of the budget billing year. This can greatly assist customers in budgeting for their energy costs throughout the year without the concerns of seasonal spikes in energy consumption. At the end of the budget year, an account reconciliation occurs, where the actual energy usage is compared to the total payments made by the customer. If a customer has paid more than they owe, they may receive a credit or refund. Conversely, if they have paid less, they may need to settle the difference. For those interested in enrolling in this program or seeking more details, it is advisable to check the current National Grid web page, which provides additional information and guidelines on eligibility and enrollment procedures.