Press Release

PUC OKs Lower Rate than Requested by PA American Water – Coatesville Division Wastewater

Published on 11/13/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement for rates lower than requested for wastewater service by Pennsylvania American Water Co. – Coatesville Division (PAWC).

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the settlement, which was reached between the company and the state’s Office of Consumer Advocate, the state’s Office of Small Business Advocate, the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff and other formal complainants including consumers, local municipalities and local authorities.

Under the settlement, PAWC will increase rates by about $1.85 million (76.6 percent). The company originally had proposed to increase rates by about $2.69 million (111.3 percent).

The average residential customer will see their monthly wastewater bill go from $15 a month to about $28 a month. Under the company’s original proposal, the monthly bill would have increased to about $34.

According to the settlement, PAWC has agreed not to file for a rate increase before April 28, 2009. According to the settlement, the company also will propose a residential customer assistance program when it files its next base rate case. PAWC also will address quality of service issues raised by residents in the 700 block of Valley Road, Coatesville.

The company serves 5,893 customers in portions of Chester 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.

# # #

Docket No. R-2008-2032689

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722