State utility regulators are asking natural gas providers to explain why prices are higher here in Georgia. They plan to meet with gas marketers next week.

The latest Consumer Price Index report shows people in Georgia pay 37 percent more for natural gas than the average American. While everyone pays about the same for the gas, Georgians pay larger bills because of state fees, transportation and pipeline charges. People with bad credit also pay more. Georgia Public Service Commission Chair Stan Wise says the news is disappointing.

“There’s not a lot we can do about it, but to raise the issue that the competitive marketplace may not be working as well as envisioned.”

Georgia lawmakers deregulated the natural gas industry in 1997. Atlanta Gas Light distributes it while nine marketers sell it to customers.

Tags: Georgia Public Service Commission, Georgia natural gas prices, Consumer Price Index