Atmos Energy customers across the region could see higher bills next year.
The natural gas company is seeking to increase its base rates for residents by about 4.5 percent, which would increase the average household bill in Southwest Colorado from $45.32 to $47.36.
Commercial companies could see an increase of 3.2 percent, which would boost the average bill from $178.09 to $183.73.
The rate increase must be approved by the Public Utilities Commission. The board is expected to make a decision about rates in February. If the increase is approved, residents could see the higher rates in March, said Terry Bote, spokesman for the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
Atmos Energy is requesting the increase because it spent $20.7 million updating its gas system in Colorado since the last base-rate increase in 2015, company spokesman Darwin Winfield said in an email.
The change would increase Atmos Energy’s annual revenues by $3.3 million, according to a news release.
The company is also seeking to consolidate divisions, which are areas in Colorado that are charged different rates for natural gas based on regional factors that affect the price of gas such as storage costs and gas suppliers, Darwin said.
Southwest Colorado is proposed to remain its own division, and the price of gas tends to be cheaper in this area than in other parts of the state.
Public hearings will be held in Greeley and Cañon City on the rate increase.
Residents can also email comments to dora_puc_complaints@state.co.us or use an online comment form at www.colorado.gov/dora/puc. Written comments should include the number, 17AL-0429G.
mshinn@durangoherald.com
