The rising cost of natural gas will likely mean higher heating costs this winter for many New Hampshire residents. The Public Utilities Commission has approved new rates for two of NH's natural gas utilities. Rates will rise approximately 10% in comparison to last year. The rate increases were a direct result of the rising cost of commodities and the limited supply of natural gas in New England. The rate increase which took effect Friday November 1st is expected to impact 20% of NH homes.