Press Release

PUC Approves Rate Increases for Water and Wastewater Companies in Chester County

Published on 12/4/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved rate increases for Warwick Water Works Inc. and Warwick Drainage Co. Inc.

The Commission voted to approve a settlement reached by Warwick Water Works Inc., the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff and the Office of Consumer Advocate.  As part of the settlement, Warwick Water will phase in the increases over two years with 65 percent of the increase going into effect the first year and the remaining 35 percent in the second year.  The total monthly bill for an average residential customer with two fixtures will increase from $30 to $62 the first year and from $62 to $80 the second year.  The company’s total increase in annual revenues will be $21,600.

The Commission also voted to approve a settlement reached by Warwick Drainage Co., the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff and the Office of Consumer Advocate.  As part of the settlement, Warwick Drainage will phase in the increases over two years with 65 percent of the increase going into effect the first year and the remaining 35 percent in the second year.  The total monthly bill for an average residential customer with two fixtures would increase from $50 to $82 the first year and from $82 to $100 the second year.  The company’s total increase in annual revenues will be $21,600.

Both companies said the increases were necessary to reflect increased operating costs and new investment in their water and sewer plant.  The companies serve approximately 25 customers within portions of St. Peters Village in northwestern 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.

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Docket Nos. R-2008-2020885; R-2008-2020873

Contact:

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