If you use Summit Natural Gas, expect much higher bills in the months ahead.

The Maine Public Utilities Commission is approving a rate hike.

• Also read: Maine natural gas company requests rate hike

The Maine PUC approved Summit’s request for an annual “cost of gas adjustment,” which would set the price at $2.29 per therm, a unit of heat energy, which will more than double customers' bills.

For an average home using 71 therms a month, a bill would jump from $78.54 to $163.58 a month.

• Also read: Concerned Maine customers speak out against proposed rate hike for natural gas

The Maine PUC says the hike is to offset the cost of gas and that Summit is not making an increased profit.

Summit Natural Gas serves Cumberland, Falmouth, Yarmouth, and the Kennebec Valley.