Press Release

PUC to Investigate Proposed Rate Increase for Wastewater Company in Chester County

Published on 6/24/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to suspend and investigate a proposed rate increase for Pennsylvania American Water Company – City of Coatesville Division (PAWC) for its wastewater service.

The Commission voted 4-0 to suspend the proposed increase for up to seven months from the proposed effective date and assigned the matter to a PUC administrative law judge for public hearings and a recommended decision or settlement.

PAWC has proposed an increase in annual rates of $2,685,488 (111.3 percent).  Under the company’s proposal, the average annual residential bill based on an annual usage of 52,200 gallons would increase from $180.00 to $412.32.  The company serves 5,893 customers in portions of Chester County.  According to the company’s filing, the proposed increase is the minimum increase necessary to permit the company to preserve public health and safety and to maintain the integrity of its existing capital.

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-2008-2032689

Contact:

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