Nicor Gas named Most Trusted Utility Brand

Rhea-AI Summary

Nicor Gas has been recognized as the Most Trusted Utility Brand for residential customers in a 2021 study by Escalent. This accolade stems from a survey involving over 76,000 customers across 140 utility companies, measuring factors like reliability and community support. Nicor Gas scored 723 out of 1000, reflecting its efforts in customer assistance and environmental initiatives. Over the past year, the company allocated more than $25 million for bill payment assistance amid the pandemic and pledged to conserve 10,000 acres of open space.

Positive

• Recognized as the Most Trusted Utility Brand in 2021 by Escalent.
• Achieved a Brand Trust Index score of 723 out of 1000.
• Provided over $25 million in bill payment assistance to pandemic-affected customers.
• Commitment to help 250,000 families meet essential needs.
• Pledged to conserve 10,000 acres of open space.

Negative

• None.

NAPERVILLE, Ill., June 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nicor Gas has been named a Most Trusted Utility Brand among residential customers, according to a 2021 study by Escalent, a top human behavior and analytics advisory firm. The recognition is based on a nationwide survey of more than 76,000 residential customers of the largest 140 utility companies to determine a Brand Trust Index score that ranks customer focus, community support, communications effectiveness, reliability, environmental dedication and company reputation.

"After a really challenging year, now more than ever our customers and communities need our assistance and that has come through financial programs, support for those affected by the pandemic and environmental stewardship initiatives," said John O. Hudson, president and CEO of Nicor Gas. "It is an honor to be recognized by our customers for our commitment that extends far beyond the delivery of clean, safe, reliable and affordable natural gas."

Nicor Gas joins the list of 38 utility companies that received the 2021 Most Trusted Brand designation for their industry-leading customer trust levels. In the natural gas category, Nicor Gas received a score of 723 on a 1,000-point scale.

According to the 2021 Cogent Syndicated Utility Brand & Customer Engagement™: Residential study from Escalent, customer trust in utility companies spiked to its highest score ever (706 out of 1,000 points) due to increased efforts by companies to communicate product options, environmental efforts and customer support during the pandemic.

"Our research shows that nearly all utilities provide great service levels, but an elite group has been able to build trusted brands that empower customers with valuable offerings and value-added information," said Chris Oberle, senior vice president at Escalent. "The most trusted utility brands include utilities that are making a positive impact on their customers, communities and financials."

In the past year, Nicor Gas has provided more than $25 million in bill payment assistance to customers who have been financially affected by the ongoing pandemic, committed to help 250,000 families meet their basic needs, pledged to help conserve 10,000 acres of open space within its service territory, delivered safe and reliable natural gas to customers during a polar vortex, and more recently, partnered with the American Red Cross of Illinois in disaster relief efforts after a tornado impacted service and displaced many more from their homes.

To learn more, visit nicorgas.com/alwayshere.

About Nicor Gas 
Nicor Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Nicor Gas serves more than 2.2 million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information, visit www.nicorgas.com. 

About Southern Company Gas  
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), America's premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.3 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states with approximately 666,000 retail customers through its companies that market natural gas. Other nonutility businesses include investments in interstate pipelines, asset management for natural gas wholesale customers and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit southerncompanygas.com. 

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SOURCE Nicor Gas

FAQ

What does the recognition of Nicor Gas as the Most Trusted Utility Brand mean for SO stock?

This recognition enhances Nicor Gas's reputation, potentially positively influencing customer loyalty and financial performance, benefiting SO stock.

What factors contributed to Nicor Gas's high Brand Trust Index score?

The score reflects customer focus, community support, communication effectiveness, reliability, and environmental dedication.

How much financial assistance has Nicor Gas provided amidst the pandemic?

Nicor Gas has provided over $25 million in bill payment assistance to customers affected by the pandemic.

What is the significance of the Most Trusted Utility Brand designation for Nicor Gas?

It indicates strong customer trust which can lead to increased customer retention and potentially higher revenues.

How does Nicor Gas plan to support environmental initiatives?

Nicor Gas has pledged to help conserve 10,000 acres of open space as part of its environmental stewardship efforts.