New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) customers could see a 4% monthly bill increase this winter if its annual Basic Gas Supply Service (BGSS), Conservation Incentive Program (CIP) and energy-efficiency program filings receive approval from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU). The increase would go into effect on Oct. 1, 2019.

The utility said the increase, which would tack on about $4.12 for the average residential customer using 100 therms per month, is a result of last year’s warmer than normal winter and the recovery of energy efficiency investments. New Jersey witnessed a 7.6% warmer December to April period compared to that of 2017-2018.

“Through our purchasing strategies and energy-efficiency programs, we are committed to helping our customers manage their energy use and costs,” said NJNG COO Steve Westhoven. “We continue to monitor market conditions and look for opportunities that benefit our customers.”

This comes from NJNG’s filing for a 2.5% increase with its CIP, which is designed to accommodate rates for variations in annual weather conditions and customer usage. Additionally, NJNG requested a 2.4% balancing charge increase on typical customer bills in order to balance deliveries with customer usage. NJNG also made filings for a 1.4% decrease on its BGSS. Combining the CIP and balancing charge increase, along with the BGSS decrease, the company is filing for a net 3.5% rate increase.

NJNG has also made a request to BPU for a 0.5% increase for its energy-efficiency rate, part of its SAVEGREEN Project offerings, which include energy-efficient equipment upgrades and whole-house improvements.