Press Release

PUC to Investigate Water Rate Increase Request by Emporium Water Company

Published on 5/19/2006

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG—The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to investigate Emporium Water Company’s request to increase water rates by $316,144 (49.85 percent). 

Under the company’s proposal, the annual bill for an average residential customer using 60,000 gallons of water would increase approximately $241 from $479 to $720.  The increase would affect approximately 1,310 customers in the borough of Emporium and parts of Shippen Township, Cameron County.

By order of law, the proposed increase will be suspended until Nov. 29, 2006.  The Commission voted to assign it to a PUC administrative law judge for a recommended decision or settlement.  PUC Commissioners will then make a final decision by Nov. 29, 2006 at a public meeting in Harrisburg.

Emporium Water said the increase is needed to realize a reasonable rate of return on the company’s fixed capital investment and to recover increased operating costs.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as stewards of competition.

For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No.  R-00061297

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