Puget Sound Energy bills are about to rise

Puget Sound Energy is telling customers they will likely see higher energy bills in the coming months, starting with gas customers.

According to PSE: "This is due to a combination of factors, including rising natural gas prices, state policy objectives for clean energy, and continued investments in system reliability and safety."

A hike in natural gas prices will hit utility bills in November 2022. But more could be coming along in 2023.

RELATED: Seattle hikes electricity rates

PSE has filed a request to increase its rates with Washington's Utilities and Transportation Commission. The new rates would kick in January 2023.

• If approved, the average electric customer will see a rate increase of $8 in 2023, and a little less than $2 in 2024.
• Gas customers will see an increase of $5 in 2023, and $1 in 2024.

PSE says the increased rates are needed to cover $3.1 billion in investments over the past four years. The utility company says it won't "profit from the natural gas it purchases for customers."

“We are making our customers aware of these increases now, to give them time to learn about their options for controlling their energy usage and how to get help paying their energy bills,” said Andy Wappler, PSE senior vice president and chief customer officer. “We are urging customers to take advantage of our bill assistance and energy efficiency programs to help them manage those higher costs.”

If you need assistance with paying your Puget Sound Energy bill, go to pse.com/lower.