PSE Seeks 3.6% Natural Gas Rate Hike Amid Criticism of Previous Rate Increases

Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is seeking a 3.6% increase in natural gas rates, which would take effect on November 1st. The proposed rate hike would result in an approximate three-dollar monthly increase for residential customers, bringing the average bill to $109 per month.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) must still approve the final rates, as PSE cannot set its own rates due to state law. Under this law, rate increases must be deemed 'fair, just, and reasonable' and in the public interest.

Attorney General Nick Brown previously criticized a proposed 29% electric rate hike and 20% natural gas rate increase over three years, calling it 'excessive and unreasonable.'

Brown suggested that PSE could save customers hundreds of millions of dollars by lowering profit margins and shifting costs to shareholders. He estimated that this could result in average households saving $695 million in 2027 alone.