Piedmont Natural Gas announced on Apr. 1 that it has filed an application with the Public Service Commission of South Carolina seeking to adjust its base rates for customers in the state.
The company said the proposed changes are intended to help recover recent capital investments and address increased costs since its last rate case in 2022. Piedmont serves about 170,000 customers across Anderson, Spartanburg, Greenville, and Cherokee counties.
If approved, the new rates would take effect Oct. 1, 2026. The typical residential customer would see an average increase of $7.67 per month, or $92 annually. Piedmont is also requesting a reduction in pass-through natural gas costs to help lessen the impact on overall bills. The total revenue increase requested amounts to 6.3%.
Emily Henson, president of Piedmont Natural Gas, said: “Piedmont works to keep costs as low as possible while safely and reliably serving our customers.” She added: “Raising rates is a decision we never make lightly, and we know any increase may be challenging to some customers.”
Henson continued: “Piedmont remains focused on helping our customers manage their bills and energy usage. We offer a variety of options, including our Equal Payment Plan program, payment assistance programs, and energy-saving tips and tools.”
The company highlighted several programs available for those needing assistance with utility bills or looking for ways to save energy throughout the year.
