PNC wants to increase natural gas prices by 9%

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – You will be able to learn more about Piedmont Natural Gas wanting to charge you extra at a public meeting Wednesday evening.

Last month, Channel 9 reported the utility company requested to boost your rates by nine percent.

Piedmont said that averages out to about $6 a month. The company mentioned it’s essential for system growth, safety upgrades, and infrastructure investments.

If the utility commission approves Piedmont’s proposed rates, they would take effect later this year.

There will be a public meeting Wednesday at 7 p.m. on the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.

Before the assembly, native environmental teams plan to protest outside the courthouse. They stated they’re upset because they imagine the money from the rate hike would assist expand natural gas use.

They mentioned Piedmont ought to be specializing in renewable vitality. Their protests will begin at 5 p.m.

That is Piedmont’s first rate hike request in six years. Many utility corporations like Duke Vitality ask for will increase nearly yearly.

North Carolina’s Senate Bill 559 would allow utilities and the fee to agree on 3-year plans.

Supporters like Duke stated it will help utilities plan better. Critics suppose it’s simply one other technique to hit prospects up for extra money.

This week, lawmakers added a requirement — utilities must spend extra money on programs for customers who struggle to pay their bills.

If the House passes the bill, that version would return to the Senate for final changes and approval.