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PSE&G has filed a proposal to cut residential gas heating bills by 5% beginning Oct. 1. The energy company cites long-term supply planning and procurement strategies that it says have helped shield customers from volatile natural gas prices.

The Newark-based utility serves nearly 1.9 million gas customers. PSE&G said the proposed decrease comes despite volatility in natural gas markets during the past winter.

Company officials attributed the lower rates to advance purchasing strategies and access to natural gas storage resources that allow PSE&G to buy fuel when prices are lower and use it during periods of peak demand.

About two-thirds of residential gas consumption occurs between December and March, according to the utility. Rather than purchasing gas during those high-demand periods, PSE&G said it secures much of its supply months or years in advance to reduce exposure to market price spikes and provide more predictable heating costs for customers.

PSE&G also said roughly 90% of its residential gas supply comes from the Marcellus Shale region in Pennsylvania, helping reduce transportation costs and improve reliability because of its proximity to New Jersey. The company said those efforts have helped maintain some of the lowest residential gas bills in New Jersey and the broader region.

“Keeping energy affordable for our customers requires planning, discipline and a long-term approach,” said Brian Clark, senior vice president of gas operations. “By securing supply in advance, maintaining access to valuable storage resources and managing costs responsibly, we’re able to help customers avoid many of the market swings that can lead to higher winter heating bills.”

The proposed rate change is subject to regulatory review. If approved, it would take effect at the start of the winter heating season.