Columbia Gas of Virginia customers to see bills increase

Columbia Gas of Virginia customers will see their seasonal monthly bills increase to $42.38 from a current level of $41.43 effective Aug. 28, 2014.  This comparison is based on a 23 Ccf seasonal monthly usage level.

A Ccf is the measurement used for natural gas usage and is the equivalent of 100 cubic feet.  The rate change reflects an update to the costs Columbia Gas will incur in purchasing gas for its customers over the upcoming three month period.

Columbia Gas reminds customers to enroll in free programs which can help manage their energy bills, including:
The Budget Payment Plan which allows customers to spread evenly the annual customer energy costs;
Direct e-bill, a paperless billing service which saves energy and the natural resources required to produce paper bills. Details on all Columbia Gas programs can be found at http://www.columbiagasva.com .

According to a news release, customers can also save money by taking advantage of the WarmWise energy efficiency and conservation program, Columbia Gas customers can reduce individual natural gas consumption and manage their cost of energy. To learn more go to http://www.warmwiseva.com.

The Virginia State Corporation Commission reviews all purchased gas adjustment (PGA) rate changes.  Columbia Gas said it typically adjusts its gas costs on a quarterly basis to reflect the price the company pays for natural gas. By law these costs are passed on dollar for dollar to customers without markup or profit, a news release said.