Spire proposes Missouri natural gas rate increases

Spire Missouri Inc. has filed a request with the Missouri Public Service Commission to increase natural gas base rates to recover over $800 million in infrastructure modernization investments. The utility seeks a net increase in annual base rate revenues of approximately $208.56 million.

If approved following an 11-month review, the average residential customer in the Spire East service area could see a monthly increase of about $13, or 15%. Customers in the Spire West service area could see an increase of approximately $10 per month, or 11%.

Spire Vice President of Regulatory Affairs David Yonce stated the investments are necessary to replace aging pipelines and ensure reliable service during extreme weather. However, Ed Bryant, Executive Director of the Consumers Council of Missouri, expressed concern that these increases are outpacing wage growth and placing financial strain on local households.

The Missouri Public Service Commission has set a deadline of November 23, 2026, for parties to intervene in the case. Public hearings will be scheduled at a later date, and customers will be notified directly by the utility and the Commission.