From staff reports
National Fuel Gas Distribution Corp. has submitted its annual purchased gas cost filing as required by the state Public Utility Commission (PUC), and customers could see a rate jump of about 25% starting in August.
The filing includes a projection for the cost of gas supplies that National Fuel will purchase and deliver to customers from Aug. 1, 2024, through July 31, 2025.
National Fuel is projecting an increase in overall gas supply charges for a typical residential customer of $207.35 per year.
The primary reason for this forecasted increase in gas supply charges is that costs associated with the purchase and transmission of natural gas are projected to be higher than those reflected in current rates, according to a press release from National Fuel.
Customers are advised that this forecast is for prices to be experienced next winter (2024-25) and must be thoroughly reviewed and approved by the PUC before becoming effective.
National Fuel is required by law to shop for the most reasonably priced gas while still maintaining an adequate supply for its approximately 214,000 Pennsylvania customers, the press release said.
As market prices fluctuate, National Fuel is required to pass those changes to customers, without any mark-up or discount, according to the press release.
The utility also says winter weather and colder temperatures can result in bills that present a hardship for some customers.
Customers having trouble paying bills can call National Fuel customer service at 1-800-365-3234 to discuss payment assistance programs.
