Conn. Natural Gas seeks rate increase

As the state embarks on a plan to expand its natural gas use, Connecticut Natural Gas announced it will request a rate increase to help upgrade its systems and comply with the state’s goals.

As a part of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s comprehensive energy strategy, state officials have requested the state’s gas companies build roughly 900 miles of natural gas main extensions, which is estimated to cost roughly $900 million. The intent of the plan is to give more Connecticut residents the option of using natural gas, which is seen as a cheaper and cleaner energy source than oil.

To meet the state’s request, Connecticut Natural Gas officials say they will need to adjust their rates to increase revenues by at least $19.9 million, a 6.3 percent increase.

Once a rate increase request is filed, the state’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority will review the the request.