Press Release

PUC Conducts Binding Poll on Rate Increase Request for Total Environmental Solutions, Treasure Lake Division

Published on 7/17/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today conducted a binding poll on the issues related to the rate increase request of the water and wastewater utilities owned by Total Environmental Solutions Inc., Treasure Lake Division.

The poll is designed to provide a mechanism for the Commission to discuss the contested issues of the case in a public forum.  Commissioners base their findings on the record developed in the proceeding, testimony from the parties in the case, the recommended decision from the presiding Administrative Law Judge and the briefs and exceptions presented by the parties in the case.  Staff will craft an Order based on the results of the poll, and a Final Order then will be entered.

The result of today’s action will increase rates for the Treasure Lake Division’s water customers by $8,128 (1.4 percent), which is a change from the company’s proposal filed on Oct. 30, 2007, to increase rates by $272,121 (45.66 percent).  As a result of the PUC’s action today, the average annual water bill for residential customers would increase from approximately $233.64 to $236.82.  In addition, the company’s annual operating revenues for its wastewater service will increase by $73,318 (7.5 percent), down from the company’s proposed increase of $286,615 (29.5 percent).  The average annual wastewater bill for residential customers would increase from $482.88 to $519.29.

This change in rates would take effect the end of July 2008. 

The proposed increases would affect approximately 5,500 customers in portions of Sandy Township, Clearfield County, and, according to the company, are necessary to realize a reasonable rate of return on the company’s fixed capital investment and to recover increased operating expenses.

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, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. R-00072493; R-00072495

Contact:

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