Heating costs to increase

CNN --

The Borderland is still warm for now. But other parts of the country are already bracing for cooler weather and higher heating bills. Families, expected to pay an average of 17% more for home heat this coming season as compared to last winter.

Those who heat with gas are facing the highest increase of more than 34%. Heating oil is expected to increase nearly 13% for an average cost of more than $2,100 this winter. Electric heat will see a 7% increase.

First time applications for low-income home energy assistance are up by 60%. The Biden Administration is asking Congress for additional funding to help low-income families stay warm this winter.