Heating fuel costs continue to rise.

• Position: Energy - Brief article

Consumers facing higher winter heating costs of four to 22%--depending on which fuel powers their home--can use energy efficiency to keep those expenses in check while remaining comfortable, advises the Alliance to Save Energy, Washington, D.C. According to the "Winter Fuels Outlook" released by the Energy Information Administration, projected costs for natural gas, heating oil, propane, and electricity all are expected to increase this winter, continuing a trend that began in 2001-02.

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EIA is projecting that the average U.S. household will have to spend about $88, or 10%, more than last year on heating fuel this winter, for a total of about $975 in heating costs. The largest increase will hit users of oil, who face a 22%, or $319, increase. Natural gas costs are projected to jump by 10%, or $78; propane, 16%, or $221; and electricity, four...