Press Release

PUC Approves Settlement for Lower Increase than Requested by Water Co. in Monroe County

Published on 2/25/2010

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a lower rate increase than requested for Birch Acres Water Works Inc. (Birch Acres).

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the settlement which will allow the company to increase its annual rates by $9,889.  Birch Acres originally requested an increase in annual rates of $15,804.  As part of the settlement, the quarterly bill for an average residential customer using 15,000 gallons of water per quarter will increase from $132 to $193.40 (46.5 percent).

The company furnishes water service to about 46 residential customers in Smithfield Township, Monroe 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 website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

# # #

Docket No. R-2009-2110093

Contact:

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