Press Release

PUC OKs Settlement for Lower Rates than Requested by Delaware County Water Company

Published on 6/24/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement for lower rates than proposed by United Water Bethel Inc., Delaware County.

The Commission voted unanimously to approve the settlement, which was reached between the company, the state’s Office of Consumer Advocate and the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff.

Under the terms of the settlement, the company will be permitted to establish rates which will produce an overall increase in annual operating revenues of $59,991.  The settlement will increase the bill of a typical 5/8” metered residential customer who uses 15,000 gallons of water per quarter from $60.06 to $62.87 (4.69 percent).  The company had originally proposed a $79,445 (6.3 percent) increase in annual operating revenues. 

The Commission found the company’s need for an increase was to cover costs of operations experienced by the company since its last rate case.  This is the first increase in rates requested by the company since 2000.  United Water Bethel provides water service to approximately 2,200 customers in portions of Delaware County.

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 select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. R-00072744; C-2008-2024433

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov