(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., AP) — Missouri Gas Energy is seeking a winter rate increase that would cost the average residential customer $5.25 more per month.

The company said Wednesday it filed the request with the Public Service Commission. If the request is approved, the increase will take effect Nov. 1.

MGE spokesman Jason Fulp says the rates reflect the cost MGE and other distribution companies pay to buy gas, plus transportation and storage expenses.

MGE, based in Kansas City, has about 500,000 customers in 155 western Missouri communities.

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