Piedmont Natural Gas’s approximately 737,000 residential customers could face higher heating costs this winter.

Duke Energy’s Piedmont Natural Gas plans to increase summer and winter rates for residential customers. despite lower fuel costsThe price of natural gas has fallen since Duke last adjusted fuel prices in June.

Average gas costs for private households would increase by around 15.3% annually. The new tariff would probably come into force sometime in January 2025.

The company also requested an extension of the tax credits it receives under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which would further reduce the proposed tax rate adjustment.

This rate increase would result in an 11.7% increase in revenue for the company and cover the costs of operating and maintaining Duke’s gas transmission pipelines. Duke Energy reported a loss of 2 cents per share at its gas supplier in the last quarter.

State regulators gathered at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse Wednesday night to hear public comments on the proposed rate hike. They were met with an empty room — and adjourned the meeting after participants’ introductions.

The court prohibited WFAE from recording the proceedings, citing guidelines regarding official court business.

State regulators will host a virtual meeting on Monday at 18:30 Customers can still Submit comments on the proposed rate increase onlineReference number G-9, SUB 837.