New rates took effect November 1, 2021.
Each fall, NW Natural files for rate changes, based primarily on the wholesale cost of natural gas, plus some annual adjustments for ongoing agreements with the commissions. These adjustments vary based on different use patterns by customer class. Variations between Oregon and Washington are caused by differences in rate structures.
Customers can get more information by calling the Rates and Regulatory Department at 503-610-7330.
Oregon
Oregon rates
NW Natural customers in Oregon will see new rates starting Nov.1, 2021, which include the annual Purchased Gas Adjustment, recently approved by the Public Utility Commission of Oregon (OPUC). Changes to the year's rates are driven by multiple factors, including economywide supply and demand impacts during the COVID-19 pandemic, and higher prices experienced during last winter's heating season.
In total, the adjustments will result in a rate increase of about $7.50 a month for the average residential customer using 54 therms per month. It's $36.21 more a month for the average small-commercial customer using 242 therms per month.
Customers will see bill credits in January, February and March after NW Natural files a request with the OPUC to credit over $40 million in revenues. If approved, the upcoming bill credits are the result of the company's efficient pipeline and gas storage management from the past year. The effect of rate changes may vary for individual customers depending on their customer category, natural gas use and other factors.
Washington
Washington rates
NW Natural customers in Washington will see new rates starting Nov.1, 2021, which include the combined effects of a rate case and the annual Purchased Gas Adjustment, both recently approved by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission.
Changes to this year's rates are driven by multiple factors, including economy-wide supply and demand impacts during the COVID-19 pandemic, and higher prices experienced during last winter's heating season.
In total, the impacts of both adjustments together will result in a rate increase of about $9.15 a month for the average residential customer using 57 therms per month. It's approximately $36.74 more a month for the average small-commercial customer using 236 therms per month. The effect of rate changes may vary for individual customers depending on their customer category, natural gas use and other factors.