SHREWSBURY, Mo. — The cost of natural gas is going up starting Tuesday for Spire customers in Missouri.
According to the Missouri Public Service Commission, the price increase reflects changes in the wholesale cost of natural gas in addition to the cost of replacing infrastructure.
Spire East customers will see a price jump from 60 to 71 cents per 100 cubic feet, according to the Missouri Public Service Commission, and Spire West customers will see a price jump from 79 cents to 92 cents per 100 cubic feet.
The cost of natural gas from wholesale suppliers generally makes up about half of a customer’s total monthly natural gas bill. The cost local natural gas companies must pay their suppliers is not regulated by the MPSC.
Spire officials said the price hike will help with natural gas infrastructure and finance the company’s operations. A winter storm last year pushed the company to make the move sooner than expected.
This price hike is separate from the service increase Spire filed with the MPSC earlier this year, which the MPSC is still considering. That service increase would also go toward funding things like the added cost of infrastructure and Spire operations.
At a series of public hearings, opponents argued people are already having trouble paying their gas bills after the most recent increase back in December.
Here are some ways to save money on your gas bill as rates rise:
- Add attic insulation if necessary.
- Place weather stripping around doors, use plastic film window coverings and caulk windows to keep heat from escaping your home.
- Change or replace furnace filters each month.
- Have your chimney checked for any blockages and close fireplace dampers when the fireplace is not being used.
- Have your heating system checked and tuned-up if needed.
Spire's Dollar Help program, which allows you to support fellow customers who are struggling to pay their gas bills. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law, with Spire acting as an agent for United Way in assisting those with emergency energy needs.
The utility is also providing an additional $100,000 in support of the program and expanding the income criteria to qualify for help.
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