Manitobans could be paying more for natural gas, beginning next month.
Centra Gas Manitoba Inc. has filed a general rate application with the Public Utilities Board (PUB). The application seeks approval, on an interim basis, of an average natural gas general revenue increase of 4.5 per cent. If approved, the increase will take effect November 1st of this year.
Manitoba Hydro states that for a typical residential household, the new rates would result in an average increase of approximately 3.9 per cent, or $2 per month.
This is the first general rate application filed by Centra since 2018.
In the application, Centra states the increase is needed to ensure revenues can cover the costs of running the natural gas system and performing the maintenance needed to continue providing reliable, safe, and effective service to customers. The application is also asking for PUB approval to adjust rates that include costs to transport natural gas to Manitoba and to store gas in the summer months for use in the winter.
The General Rate Application does not include gas commodity rates which are adjusted quarterly by the PUB in a separate process.