Paul Kirby is reporting for the Daily Freeman Central Hudson Gas and Electric Company said July 27, natural gas prices will sharply rise effective Mon., Aug. 1. The supply price for natural gas will increase by 20 percent to 87 cents per 100 cubic feet, up from 72 cents in July, according to Central Hudson spokesperson Joseph Jenkins. He said that while the use of natural gas is typically lower during the summer months, supply prices quoted on bills and overall bill impacts will vary for individual customers depending on their billing cycle and energy use. Jenkins noted that the New York State Public Service Commission and other watchdog agencies had warned of continued rising energy prices. This increase comes on the heels of a slight jump in electricity supply prices, from 4.18 cents per kilowatt-hour in June to 5.83 cents per kilowatt-hour, as of July 13. Jenkins said the August electricity supply rates will not be known until August 9 or 10. The utility said that the new rates were approved by the PSC as part of a three-year plan in November. The approved plan includes another increase in delivery charges in July 2023. This year, the utility has been under fire for billing complaints and skyrocketing customer bills. The PSC as well as a state Senate committee are investigating those matters. The utility announced last week it will re-institute late fees beginning in October. Read more in the Daily Freeman.