Columbia Gas of Virginia is asking state regulators for a revenue increase that would raise the average residential customer’s monthly bill by about $14 in two phases.
The company seeks an increase in its base rates, which make up about 60% of a customer’s bill and are separate from the cost of gas. By law, the Chester-based natural gas provider passes on the cost of natural gas to consumers directly without markup.
Columbia Gas wants regulatory approval to raise the average residential customer’s monthly bill by $10.81, or 11%, for natural gas service rendered on or after Oct. 4 of this year and another $3.03, or 3%, for service rendered on or after Oct. 4, 2027.
The company defines an average residential customer as one who uses 5.1 dekatherms of gas per month. The average residential monthly bill today stands at $97.28. It would rise to $111.12 if the increases are approved.
Columbia Gas said on its website that it filed its case with the Virginia State Corporation Commission on May 7. While the regulatory process could take a year, the company anticipates enacting the higher rates on an interim basis in the fourth quarter of this year. If the SCC ultimately approves final rates lower than the interim rates, the company would have to refund the difference.
Columbia Gas said that its proposed two-part rate increase would provide $78.9 million in additional revenue to pay for new software to improve customer communications, advanced meters and pipes that are safer and more reliable, as well as other improvements.
“Columbia Gas’ number one priority is safely operating and maintaining our pipeline system, meeting or exceeding all federal and state requirements. This base rate request incorporates expenses associated with continuing safety initiatives and technological enhancements,” the utility said.
The utility’s last rate case was decided in May 2025, when the SCC approved an increase that added about $6 to the average residential bill. Columbia Gas had asked for more, hoping for an increase of about $9 per month for the average residential customer.
Columbia Gas serves 293,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in 98 cities, towns and counties throughout Virginia, including in the Lynchburg region, Southside, and Alleghany and Giles counties.
