To reflect the lower estimated cost of natural gas for the remaining winter heating season, gas rates were immediately lowered about 11% for Laclede Gas Co.’s 631,000 customers, the customers, according to a filing reviewed and accepted by the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC). Residential customers currently pay $0.83/therm, and the new rate will decrease to $0.71/therm.

Under tariffs on file with the PSC, Laclede makes four filings a year to reflect the wholesale cost of natural gas. Approximately 65% to 80% of a customer’s natural gas bill reflects the cost of natural gas from wholesale suppliers. An annual regulatory review by the PSC is conducted to ensure that regulated gas companies make prudent decisions in securing natural gas supplies for their customers, the commission said.

In other news, the PSC approved an application authorizing Laclede to provide gas service in St. Paul, MO, which is in St. Charles County. Laclede will be providing service to two proposed residential subdivisions adjacent to Laclede’s current service area in St. Charles County.

Laclede serves gas customers in St. Louis as well as the Missouri counties of St. Louis, St. Charles, Butler, Iron, Franklin, Jefferson, Madison, St. Francois and Ste. Genevieve.

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