Payment Assistance
If you are worried about your ability to pay a higher energy bill, there are payment assistance programs available.
South Dakota Natural Gas Regulatory Rate Review
NorthWestern Energy submitted an application to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission on June 21, 2024 for a regulatory review of our natural gas rates.
Current NorthWestern Energy South Dakota natural gas rates were set using cost information from 2010.
Since then, NorthWestern Energy has invested $82.1 million in our South Dakota natural gas infrastructure to continue our commitment to providing reliable, sustainable energy service at the most affordable rates possible to our customers.
Investments include:
Automated Meter Reading technology to replace manually read meters
Maintenance of NorthWestern Energy’s 1,747 miles of natural gas distribution pipeline in South Dakota serving 63 communities
NorthWestern Energy is requesting a 9.1% increase, $6 million, in our South Dakota natural gas revenues.
How much will my bill increase?
For a residential customer using 100 therms of gas in a month, the rate increase, if our request is approved by the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission, would mean a monthly bill increase of 7.92% or:
$8.38
NorthWestern Energy is asking for the regulatory rate review to ensure that our customers will continue to be served by a financially sound company with access to low-cost capital to continue efficient investments that ensure reliable, safe energy service for customers.
There are many options available to participate in the natural gas regulatory rate review process.
Download the rate case filing below or visit the SDPUC website.
A copy of the filing will also be available at each of our office locations, where you can request a copy to look at in-person. As a NorthWestern Energy South Dakota customer, you can also directly participate in the public process that is undertaken by the SDPUC. According to state law, a customer has a right to join with 24 other customers to file a written objection to a rate increase and request the SDPUC suspend the rate increase and hold a public hearing to determine if the rate increase should be allowed (please refer to SDCL 49-43A-12).
If you have any questions about our natural gas services or the proposed rate increase, please call our customer service number at 800-245-6977.
NorthWestern Energy is here to help
We recognize that our rate increase will impact our customers during a period when other prices are also increasing. NorthWestern Energy is committed to helping customers who may be struggling with their bills.
What can I do to manage my bill?
- Start preparing today.
- Apply for financial assistance.
- Sign up for Budget Billing.
- Implement energy efficiency tips.
If you're concerned about paying your bill, reach out to us right away. We have billing and payment options that can help.
Budget Billing
With Budget Billing, your NorthWestern Energy bill is the same amount each month, year round.
Payment Arrangements
We can also explore a payment arrangement if your account qualifies. Log in to your My Energy Account for payment and billing program information. Or call our Customer Service Team at 800-245-6977 to discuss additional options.
Service & Payment Locations
Our walk-in Customer Service locations are available for in-person assistance. Find the office nearest you.
BE ENERGY EFFICIENT
Save money by being more energy efficient. Check out our top-10 low-cost or no-cost tips for energy efficiency.
2023 South Dakota Electric Rate Review
Track your energy use in My Energy Account
With My Energy Account, you can visually track your energy use, month-to-month and year-over-year. Understanding your energy use can help you develop habits to save energy and money.