For Release: 12/16/2009
Michigan Gas Utilities Receives New Natural Gas Rates for 2010
Monroe, MI – Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU), a subsidiary of Integrys Energy Group, Inc. (NYSE: TEG), has received approval to increase natural gas rates. This increase which was approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission will become effective Friday, January 1, 2010. The new rates will result in an increase of approximately 2.1% or $1.47 per month for the typical residential customer using 870 ccf of natural gas annually.
"We realize that any increase in this tough economy is difficult for our customers," said Paul Livernois, MGU spokesman. "The good news is that natural gas costs are down this heating season, which is the largest portion of our customer’s bill. Customers should end up with savings on heating costs, compared to last year, assuming we have normal winter temperatures," he added.
Four issues drove the slight increase:
- Low sales growth
- Increased cost of capital for financing
- Increased costs of customer service functions
- Increased pension and benefit costs
MGU customers will learn more about the proposed rates in their January bills, including a comparison chart of 2009 – 2010 charges, which is also available online at www.michigangasutilities.com.
About Michigan Gas Utilities
Michigan Gas Utilities Corporation is a natural gas utility headquartered in Monroe, Michigan serving approximately 165,000 customers in lower Michigan.
For More Information, Contact:
- Paul Livernois, Spokesperson
(734) 457-6123
- Michigan Gas Utilities Customer Service
800-401-6402