SALT LAKE CITY, UT — In a significant development for natural gas consumers, the Public Service Commission of Utah has approved a new base rate filing from Enbridge Gas, set to take effect on January 1, 2026. This decision will affect customers across Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming, marking an increase of 4.8% in base rates that will impact residential and commercial users alike. The decision was announced by the company on Wednesday, a move that underscores ongoing adjustments in the natural gas market and the costs associated with infrastructure maintenance and expansion. Base rates are reviewed and filed every three years, designed to ensure that utility companies can adequately cover the costs associated with delivering natural gas to consumers. These costs include expenses related to pipeline infrastructure maintenance, equipment upgrades, and overall operational expenditures. Enbridge, which has been operating in the region for 95 years, reported that it has invested nearly $1 billion over the past three years to enhance and expand its system infrastructure, a step aimed at improving service reliability and efficiency for its customers. For the typical residential customer, the approved rate change will translate to an increase of about $2.67 per month, or approximately $32 annually. This adjustment is framed within the context of rising costs across various sectors, as energy prices continue to fluctuate. In Utah, the average cost for natural gas remains competitive, with typical customers paying about $1.91 per day for services that include home heating, cooking, and water heating. Enbridge emphasized that the current rates are consistent with those from 2022, indicating a focus on maintaining affordability amid economic pressures. Judd Cook, vice president and general manager of Enbridge Gas for Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho, addressed customer concerns regarding the rate increase. “We know every dollar matters to our customers,” Cook stated. “This rate adjustment reflects our commitment to keeping energy affordable while ensuring we recover the actual costs of the investments we’ve made in maintaining and growing our reliable natural gas infrastructure to meet our customers’ needs.” Cook elaborated on the company’s proactive strategies to shield customers from market volatility, highlighting their long-term supply planning and strategic purchasing methods. The importance of natural gas as a cost-effective heating solution is underscored by recent national trends. Enbridge noted that natural gas is currently the lowest-cost home heating option available across the United States, reinforcing its significance for many households. This message is crucial for consumers who may be concerned about rising costs in other areas of their lives, as natural gas remains a vital resource for heating and cooking in the region. In addition to the base rate adjustments, Enbridge has made efforts to provide resources for customers who may struggle to manage their bills. The company offers flexible payment plans and various energy assistance programs. Customers can access these resources by visiting the Enbridge website or by calling 1-800-323-5517 for more information. These initiatives reflect the company's understanding of the financial challenges faced by many residents, particularly in the wake of economic fluctuations exacerbated by global events. Enbridge Gas serves over 1.2 million customers across 33 counties in Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming, making it a significant player in the regional energy landscape. The company is a subsidiary of Enbridge Inc. (ENB), a Canadian energy transportation and distribution giant that operates extensively in North America. The commitment to infrastructure investment and customer service aligns with the company’s broader strategy to maintain its market position while delivering reliable energy solutions. As the January 2026 implementation date approaches, stakeholders, including consumers, advocacy groups, and regulatory bodies, will be closely monitoring the impact of these new rates. The ongoing dialogue about energy costs and infrastructure investment will undoubtedly shape future regulatory decisions and customer expectations. With energy affordability becoming an increasingly pressing issue, Enbridge’s rate adjustment serves as a critical reminder of the balance between infrastructure investment and consumer affordability in the evolving energy landscape.