Hawaii Gas customers to see rate increase next year
Hawaii Gas, the state’s only gas utility, is looking to increase Oahu customer bills by $9.50.
The utility filed an application with the state Public Utilities Commission on Tuesday.
If approved by the PUC, the the typical household bill on Oahu will increase $9.50 from the current typical bill of $48 a month, according to Alan Tang, spokesman for Hawaii Gas. Tang said a typical residential customer has a stove top or a dryer that requires the utility’s services.
Maui and Molokai residential utility customers will also see rates increase. Hawaii Gas said on average Kauai and Hawaii Island customers will not see a change to their bills. Lanai customers will see a small decrease.
Hawaii Gas said the rate increase would pay for recovery of investments in “fuel diversification projects” and increased system reliability.
“We are committed to ensuring that our customers can count on us every day for the gas they need for cooking, drying, heating and lighting. Regular investments in operational infrastructure are essential to ensuring the safety and reliability of the gas products we manufacture and deliver,” said Alicia Moy, president and CEO of Hawaii Gas, in a prepared statement.
Don't miss out on what's happening!
Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It's FREE!
Changes in rates only affect Hawaii Gas customers. Hawaii Gas said the company expect the rates to go into effect in mid-2018.
