DENVER – UGI Utilities natural gas customers can expect an increase in their gas bills beginning next month. The Denver, PA based utility company announced that the average customer will see a 7.1% increase in their natural gas costs, which would increase the average monthly cost of $104.37 per month to $111.73 per month. UGI pointed to increased demand for gas in recent cold weather as the driving force behind the rising costs, and by law, supply costs are to be passed on to the customer by the utility company without an additional markup. For those who may struggle with paying the increased monthly costs, UGI reminded customers that there are budget billing options and energy assistance programs available to consider, and Pennsylvania customers have the freedom to choose their energy supplier to best meet their service and financial needs.