UGI Utilities has filed a request with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to increase its base rates that would result in residential customers’ monthly bills increasing by nearly 9%.
Company officials said the proposed increase would recover its $468 million investment in system upgrades and maintain reliable natural gas service.
For a residential heating customer using 68.7 ccf of gas monthly, the total bill would rise from $113.64 to $123.55, an 8.7% increase. Typical commercial customers would see a 6.4% increase, while industrial customers face a 6.3% hike.
The requested increase affects only the delivery charge, which funds the installation and maintenance of UGI’s gas distribution system and related services, officials said. Customers purchasing gas from alternate suppliers may experience different impacts.
UGI is requesting the new rates take effect March 29. However, the PUC typically suspends the effective date for general base rate proceedings to allow for investigation and public hearings, officials said.
The full PUC proceeding is expected to last about nine months from the date of filing, which would delay implementation of the new rates until October.
Customers can view the rate filing and related materials on UGI’s website, ugi.com, or call the company toll-free at 1-800-276-2722 for more information.
