Utilities Seeking Cuts in NatGas Rates, Citing Abundant Supplies

摘要

A number of natural gas utilities across the United States have asked state regulators for a decrease in their rates as the winter heating season approaches, citing an oversupply of gas from shale gas development. Utilities are seeking an estimated 5-6% decrease in their natural gas rates. Delmarva Power, a gas and power utility subsidiary of Pepco Holdings Inc., has filed two gas rate changes with the Delaware Public Service Commission that if approved would result in an overall monthly bill decrease of $8.18, or about 5.4% for typical residential customers who use 120 Ccf (100 cubic feet) of gas per month. Both of the proposed rates would take effect at the start of the winter heating season on Nov. 1.