The Investor
17 Feb 2026, 19:50
Rhode Island Energy Meets Record Gas Demand Amid Coldest Winter in 30 Years
Rhode Island Energy (RIE), part of PPL Corporation, said it has maintained safe and reliable service as the state experiences its coldest winter in three decades.
From January 23 to February 9, Rhode Island endured its longest stretch of severe cold since 2015, with temperatures more than 40% below recent averages. During this period, RIE recorded three of the highest natural gas demand days in its history, with total demand exceeding 5.3 million dekatherms. Gas usage over the 18-day cold snap was about 20% higher than the company’s typical total demand during the summer months of June through August.
RIE highlighted the resilience of its gas system amid record demand and emphasized the importance of continued infrastructure investment. With several weeks of winter remaining, the company urged customers to clear snow from gas meters and vents, ensure carbon monoxide detectors are working, and follow safety protocols if they smell gas.
Rhode Island Energy serves more than 770,000 electricity and natural gas customers across the state.
Rhode Island Energy (RIE), part of PPL Corporation, said it has maintained safe and reliable service as the state experiences its coldest winter in three decades.
From January 23 to February 9, Rhode Island endured its longest stretch of severe cold since 2015, with temperatures more than 40% below recent averages. During this period, RIE recorded three of the highest natural gas demand days in its history, with total demand exceeding 5.3 million dekatherms. Gas usage over the 18-day cold snap was about 20% higher than the company’s typical total demand during the summer months of June through August.
RIE highlighted the resilience of its gas system amid record demand and emphasized the importance of continued infrastructure investment. With several weeks of winter remaining, the company urged customers to clear snow from gas meters and vents, ensure carbon monoxide detectors are working, and follow safety protocols if they smell gas.
Rhode Island Energy serves more than 770,000 electricity and natural gas customers across the state.
