Natural gas will be more expensive starting January 1 2007.

The State Energy and Water Regulatory Commission (SEWRC) approved the 4.06 per cent increase that national gas provider Bulgargaz demanded.

Starting January gas is to be sold at 321.11 leva per 1000 cubic m, instead of at the current 308.58 leva, Bulgarian National Radio reported.

SEWRC initially suggested a 1.89 per cent increase, which was re-considered due to the insufficient natural gas supply for the proper working of power plants.

Bulgargaz requested the increase due to the higher prices on the international market and the unexpected new quantity of natural gas requested by power plants.

An increase in the price of electricity could be considered the soonest in the middle of 2007, SEWRC representatives said.  An inspection will be carried out beforehand and its results were to determine whether a change in the price of electricity was needed, the national radio reported.