I just got slapped with a similar fee by Eastern Propane and Oil last week. Because my work has dropped off a little, and because we use a Crock-Pot a lot in the winter, I used less than 50% of my LP gas tank last year. I thought conserving fuel was a good thing until I got a bill for $49 for insufficient propane use.
When I called to dispute the bill, I was told that the policy was put in effect in 2006 and notices were sent out to all LP gas customers. The fee is to cover the cost of the tanks, because they're made of steel and steel does not depreciate in value, and for the insurance the gas company has to pay on the tanks and parts outside of the house.
Ironically, LP gas is the only fuel that costs less per unit the more you use - so much for "being green"....
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