Piedmont Natural Gas Agrees on Low-Cost Infrastructure Investment

Piedmont Natural Gas has reached an agreement with consumer and industrial groups in South Carolina to keep costs as low as possible while investing in necessary infrastructure. The agreement includes measures to moderate the impact on customers' bills, such as significant reductions in pass-through natural gas costs.

The deal also includes a commitment by Piedmont to contribute $220,000 over four years to its Share the Warmth energy assistance program, which helps low-income individuals and families pay their monthly energy bills. This program supports those struggling with high energy costs.

Piedmont Natural Gas serves approximately 170,000 customers in Anderson, Spartanburg, Greenville, and Cherokee counties, with more than 90 percent being residential customers. The agreement was jointly presented to the Public Service Commission of South Carolina by Piedmont Natural Gas, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff, the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs, and the South Carolina Energy Users Committee.

If approved, the new rates would likely take effect in October. Emily Henson, president of Piedmont Natural Gas, stated that they 'recognize the cost pressures many customers are facing, and we appreciate the thoughtful engagement and collaboration with the groups in reaching this agreement.'