Gas pipeline limits prompt higher generating rates for customers of 2 Connecticut utilities

Connecticut regulators have approved higher rates to generate electricity for residential and business customers of two utilities.

The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority announced Monday its approval of higher standard service rates proposed by Connecticut Light and Power and United Illuminating. The cost of natural gas has been rising due to limited pipeline access.

The six-month rate takes effect Jan. 1.

For customers of CL&P, a subsidiary of Northeast Utilities, the residential generation rate increases to 12.6 cents per kilowatt hour from about 10 cents. A customer who uses an average 700 kilowatt hours would pay $88.40 a month, up about $18.

UI's residential generation rate will increase to 13.3 cents per kilowatt hour, from 8.7 cents.

The natural gas price increases underlying the request already have been posted in contracts purchased under state oversight.