ST. LOUIS — An increase in natural gas rates goes into effect Tuesday, Nov. 29, for Spire Missouri customers.
Spire East customers will see an increase from 60 cents per 100 cubic square feet to 71 cents, according to a press release by the Missouri Service Commission.
Spire West customers will see an increase from 79 cents per 100 cubic square feet to 92 cents.
The rise in prices are due to changes in wholesale cost of natural gas and changes in the company’s actual cost adjustment factor, according to the press release.
“The cost of natural gas from wholesale suppliers generally makes up approximately 50% to 55% of a customer’s total monthly natural gas bill. The wholesale cost of natural gas (the cost your local natural gas company must pay to its suppliers for natural gas) is not regulated by the Missouri Public Service Commission,” the press release states.
“The wellhead cost of natural gas is unregulated and is primarily driven by supply, demand and the weather. The Missouri Public Service Commission does conduct an annual regulatory review to ensure that regulated natural gas companies make prudent decisions in securing natural gas supplies for their customers.”
Below are tips on how to manage utility bills as stated in the press release:
Add attic insulation if necessary.
Place weather stripping around doors, use plastic film covering and caulk windows to keep heat from escaping from your home.
Change or replace furnace filters each month when dirty.
Have your chimney checked for blockage.
Close fireplace dampers when the fireplace is not being used.
Have your heating system checked and tuned-up if needed.
Place an approved insulated cover-jacket around the hot water heater.
Consider getting professional help for any projects that are beyond your capabilities.
Contact your local utility company to ask about energy saving tips and programs.
