Virginia Natural Gas files rate request to support continued investment in safe, reliable and resilient energy delivery

Proposed filing supports infrastructure modernization, system integrity and operational improvements that benefit customers across southeastern Virginia.

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – August 4, 2026 – Virginia Natural Gas today filed an application with the Virginia State Corporation Commission requesting approval of new rates that would support approximately $66 million in investments designed to strengthen and modernize its natural gas delivery system.

The request reflects ongoing investments in infrastructure, pipeline integrity programs, technology enhancements and the company's workforce. Together, these efforts help improve system performance, support compliance with federal and state regulations and position the company to meet the evolving needs of customers throughout southeastern Virginia. They also help ensure Virginia Natural Gas can continue providing dependable energy service to the more than 313,000 customers it serves across the region.

The proposal would increase the average residential customer's monthly bill by approximately $10 beginning January 1, 2027.

"Every day, our customers count on us to safely deliver the energy that heats their homes, powers local businesses and supports essential services throughout our communities," said Shannon O. Pierce, president and CEO of Virginia Natural Gas. "This request would allow us to continue making prudent investments in the infrastructure that serves our region while keeping affordability at the forefront of every decision we make."

The proposed rate adjustment would support investments focused on:
•    Modernizing and maintaining natural gas infrastructure
•    Enhancing system safety and reliability
•    Strengthening resiliency during severe weather and other operational challenges
•    Inspecting and maintaining pipelines and related facilities
•    Meeting federal and state safety requirements
•    Supporting technology and operational improvements that benefit customers

Virginia Natural Gas works year-round to operate, monitor and maintain the network that serves homes, businesses, hospitals, schools and other critical facilities throughout Hampton Roads and southeastern Virginia.

"We understand that any increase matters to customers," Pierce said. "That is why we remain focused on managing costs responsibly while making the investments necessary to continue providing the safe, reliable and resilient service our customers expect and deserve. Virginia Natural Gas is committed to helping customers access available payment options, assistance programs and energy-saving resources.”

The filing begins a formal review process before the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). The Commission will evaluate the request and determine whether the proposed rates are reasonable and appropriate. Interim rates are subject to refund with interest upon the SCC's final decision. Additional information about the filing and the regulatory process will be available at www.virginianaturalgas.com.

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About Virginia Natural Gas
Virginia Natural Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies under Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Serving more than 310,000 customers in southeast Virginia, the company celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2025. Ranked as a Most Trusted Utility Brand by Escalent, Virginia Natural Gas is committed to resilient and sustainable fuel solutions that meet the growing needs of customers, communities and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

For more information, visit virginianaturalgas.com and connect with the company on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Southern Company Gas
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE: SO), one of America’s premier energy companies. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.4 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states and more than 600,000 retail customers through its natural gas marketing businesses. The company also invests in interstate pipelines, provides asset management for natural gas wholesale customers, and owns and operates natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit southerncompanygas.com.

Media Contact:
Morgan Chase
Office: 757-616-7510 | Cell: 757-725-6916
mchase@southernco.com | https://www.virginianaturalgas.com/news/press-releases.html