Press Release

PUC Investigates Rate Increase Request by a Monroe County Water Co.

Published on 8/30/2007

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG –The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to investigate to increase rates request by Birch Acres Water Works Inc.

The company is requesting an increase of about $6,230 (50 percent). Under the company’s proposal, the annual bill for residential customers using 60,000 gallons a year will increase about $193 from $385 to $578.

The increase would affect about 45 customers in Smithfield Township, Monroe County. 

By order of law, the proposed increases will be suspended for up to seven months.  The Commission voted to assign the proposals to a PUC administrative law judge for a recommended decision or settlement.  PUC Commissioners will then make a final decision by April 1, 2008, at a public meeting in Harrisburg.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner. For recent news releases, audio of public meetings, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. R-00072458

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