MidAmerican Energy Seeks 5% Natural Gas Rate Hike in Iowa

MidAmerican Energy has filed a request with the Iowa Utilities Commission to increase natural gas delivery rates by approximately 5% for its 638,000 customers in Iowa. The proposal would raise the typical residential monthly bill by $2.89, increasing it from $55.60 to $58.49. The company stated the hike is necessary to fund the inspection and replacement of gas lines, 24 miles of transmission line integrity work, and technology modernization across 25,000 miles of lines.

MidAmerican Energy clarified that the request affects only delivery rates and not the cost of the gas itself. The utility noted that the proposed rates remain lower than they were in 2006, when bills for similar usage averaged $74.10. Karrie Leza, Vice President of Gas Delivery, defended the request as a way to manage costs and reduce risk through critical system updates.

Temporary delivery rates will be implemented on July 17 while the Iowa Utilities Commission conducts its review. MidAmerican Energy committed to refunding customers with interest if the commission ultimately approves a lower permanent rate. The review process includes public meetings scheduled for September 8 in Cedar Rapids, September 9 in Des Moines and online, and September 10 in Sioux City. A final decision may not take effect until mid-to-late 2027.