MDU wants to increase natural gas rate

(Bismarck, ND) -- Montana-Dakota Utilities is trying to increase its rate for natural gas services.  

The Bismarck-based company submitted a request to the North Dakota Public Service Commission earlier this month, asking for an overall hike of nearly seven-point-five-percent.  

This would impact more than one-hundred-thousand customers in the state.  

If approved, residents would pay almost six dollars more each month.  

The money would go toward system upgrades and maintenance.  

A final decision is expected next summer.