Customers of Missouri Gas Energy (MGE) will benefit from lower natural gas prices this winter. On Thursday, MGE filed a request with the Missouri Public Service Commission to lower the Cost of Gas rate.

If approved, these rates will be the lowest in more than a decade with customers paying an average of $0.46 per 100 cubic feet for the cost of gas. Compared to last winter, customers will save $24 per month, excluding impact from weather.

“Customers choose natural gas because it is a more reliable and warmer heat compared to other energy sources. It’s also the most affordable energy for heating your home and that’s even more true today. This year abundant supplies and reasonable temperatures in our area are helping to keep rates even lower. If this request is approved, MGE customers will save nearly $120 compared to last winter,” said Steve Lindsey, president of MGE.

The Cost of Gas rate is often the largest part of a natural gas bill, usually around 50-60 percent of the total. There is no markup on this rate. When rates are lowered, MGE passes on those savings to customers. Each month customers pay the exact amount MGE pays for the natural gas purchased further up the pipeline. The remaining Delivery Cost on a bill covers maintenance and infrastructure upgrades to ensure safe and reliable natural gas to homes and businesses.