Athens Utilities Board Approves Natural Gas Rate Adjustment Following Cost of Service Study

After completing an extensive cost of service survey and following consultation with the Tennessee Comptroller’s staff, the Athens Utilities Board (AUB) held the first reading today of a proposed natural gas rate adjustment.

The Tennessee Comptroller requires municipal water, wastewater, and natural gas utilities charge sufficient retail rates to ensure positive annual net revenues.  These rate changes are essential to maintain the financial stability of the gas department, and to continue safe, reliable delivery of natural gas to the Athens community.

Effective July 1, 2025, AUB will increase the monthly availability fee from $6.00 to $10.50. A second increase of $2.00 to the availability fee will take effect on July 1, 2026. Additionally, there will be a $0.02 per decatherm increase to the natural gas commodity rate.

This is the first increase to AUB’s availability fee in 22 years.  

“These decisions are never easy, and we understand the impact any increase can have on our customers,” said Craig Brymer, Superintendent of Natural Gas at AUB. “But after thorough analysis and discussions, it’s clear that these changes are necessary to maintain the level of service and safety our customers rely on. We’re committed to being transparent and fiscally responsible as we plan for the future.”

The final reading and approval of the rate change will occur at the June AUB Board meeting.