FOLSOM -- Due to infrastructure investments made to "maintain the safety and reliability of its natural gas delivery system," utility company South Jersey Gas late last month sought an increase of $75 million to its base rates.

The petition was filed Jan. 27 with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, which must approve the proposal. For customers, it means those who use the "typical" residential amount of 100 therms of natural gas per month would pay a little more than $20 more monthly.

"Investing in improvements to our infrastructure allows us to continue safely delivering a dependable supply of natural gas vital to heating customers' homes and operating their businesses. These investments ensure we can meet customer needs while supporting southern New Jersey's growing population and economy," Dave Robbins, president of South Jersey Gas, said in a press release.

According to a news release, South Jersey Gas has not sought such an increase since 2013 and its rates have actually decreased in the past three years. However, the company in recent years has invested approximately $518 million in system improvements "that are not currently reflected in base rates."

According to the Press of Atlantic City, average South Jersey Gas customers rack up a bill of approximately $120 per month.

"We understand a rate increase affects customers, especially those on fixed incomes," Robbins said. "Cost-saving measures are in place to help minimize or avoid increases, and we manage our natural gas supply portfolio responsibly to take advantage of declining wholesale natural gas prices for customers."

According to the company, readers who expect difficulty paying the new bills should contact South Jersey Gas' Customer Care Center by calling 1-888-766-990.

South Jersey Gas, based in Folsom, Atlantic County, also serves customers in Cape May, Cumberland and Salem counties as well as portions of Gloucester, Burlington and Camden counties.

Greg Adomaitis may be reached at gadomaitis@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregAdomaitis. Find NJ.com on Facebook.