Colorado Springs Utilities Proposes Temporary Natural Gas Rider for Federal Safety Upgrades

Overview

• CSU introduced the Natural Gas Integrity Federal Compliance rider at a Feb. 18 Utilities Board meeting to fund mandated replacement of bare steel gas lines.
• Residential gas bills would rise by $8.54 per month—about a 17% increase to the gas portion, or 2.9% of a typical four‑service bill—while commercial and industrial bills would increase by $18.00 per month.
• From 2026 to 2029, CSU estimates the program will cost $90 million, with the rider intended to run through 2029 before annual reevaluation and potential transition to base rates.
• The proposal goes to a City Council rate hearing on April 14, followed by a decision on April 28, with the charge taking effect July 1, 2026 if approved.
• Coverage differs on the replacement pace, with KOAA reporting a total of 39 miles to be completed over 10 years and KRDO describing approximately 39 miles annually.