
                                                                   Exhibit 23(b)



INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT

We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of
RGC Resources, Inc. on Form S-8 of our report dated October 22, 1999,
incorporated by reference in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of RGC Resources,
Inc. for the year ended September 30, 1999.



Deloitte & Touche LLP
Charlotte, North Carolina
March 3, 2000
