Columbia Gas of Ohio Inc. is seeking permission from state regulators to charge $1.19 per 100 cubic feet for natural gas in December, the same rate as for this month.
A year ago the utility s rate for December was $1.05.
If the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio approves the December rate request, the average monthly bill will be $170, up from $149 a year ago, the firm said.
The utility the rate request reflected current volatility in natural gas prices and a remaining supply of natural gas that was purchased when wholesale prices were much higher.