Some Michiganders Will Pay More For Natural Gas This Winter: What To Know

Some Michiganders will see higher gas bills this winter.

The Michigan Public Service Commission on Tuesday approved a $157 million natural gas rate hike for Consumers Energy.

Consumers customers will see their monthly bills jump by an average of $4.44, or 6.88 percent starting in November.

Consumers Energy initially asked for a $248 million last December, before revising it to $217 million. The utility said the money is needed for infrastructure upgrades, such as replacing main pipeline materials that are considered at highest risk for leaks and service interruptions with new materials.

The gas rate hike comes as Consumers Energy is also seeking a raise electric rates by $436 million. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has intervened in that request. The commission is still reviewing the matter.