The gas supply charge on your bill represents the cost of the natural gas commodity itself. In Georgia's deregulated market, this charge comes from your chosen gas marketer—not from Atlanta Gas Light. Understanding how supply charges work is key to managing your natural gas costs.
Atlanta Gas Light handles only the delivery infrastructure. The gas flowing through those pipes is purchased from one of 10+ certified gas marketers operating in Georgia, and each marketer sets their own rates and plan options.
How Gas Supply Charges Work
Gas supply charges are calculated by multiplying your therm usage by your marketer's rate per therm. For example, if you use 100 therms and your rate is $0.70/therm, your supply charge would be $70.
This is separate from AGL's delivery charges, which cover the cost of maintaining the pipeline network and reading your meter. Your total bill combines both components: AGL delivery + marketer supply = total bill.
Fixed vs. Variable Rate Plans
Gas marketers offer two main plan types:
- Fixed-rate plans: Lock in a price per therm for 6-24 months, protecting you from market fluctuations
- Variable-rate plans: Rate changes monthly based on wholesale gas prices, which can be lower in summer but higher in winter
Fixed-rate plans provide predictability, while variable plans can offer savings if you're willing to monitor rates and switch when prices rise.
Comparing Marketer Rates
Georgia law requires gas marketers to post their rates publicly. The Georgia Public Service Commission maintains a pricing comparison tool that shows current rates from all certified marketers. As of January 2026, rates range from approximately $0.64 to $0.90 per therm for fixed-rate plans.
When comparing rates, look beyond the per-therm price. Some marketers charge monthly fees, early termination fees, or have minimum usage requirements. The total cost depends on all these factors combined.
When to Switch Marketers
You can switch gas marketers at any time, though some plans have early termination fees. The best time to shop for rates is typically in late summer or early fall, before heating season begins and demand pushes prices higher.
Switching marketers doesn't affect your gas service—AGL continues to deliver gas regardless of which marketer you choose. The transition is seamless and typically takes effect within one billing cycle.