Press Release

PUC Acts on Emergency Rate Relief Request by Water, Wastewater Companies Serving Parts of Pike County

Published on 12/2/2010

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today acted on petitions by Deer Haven Water Co. and Deer Haven Wastewater Co. for emergency rate relief.

The Commission voted 5-0 to grant Deer Haven Sewer $10,872 in emergency rate relief. The company originally requested $40,314 in a petition filed Oct. 20, 2010.  

The request was identical to a rate increase request filed by the company that was suspended by the Commission for investigation on Oct. 14, 2010. In both requests, the wastewater company asked to increase rates by $40,314 (376.3 percent). Under the company’s proposal, the annual bill for an average residential customer will increase from $240 to $1,140 (375 percent)

In separate action, the Commission voted 5-0 to deny an Oct. 20, 2010, request by Deer Haven Water for emergency rate relief.  The request was identical to a rate increase request filed by the company that was suspended by the Commission for investigation on Oct. 14, 2010.

In both requests, the water company asked to increase water rates by $29,266 (378.1 percent). Under the company’s proposal, the annual bill for an average residential customer will increase from $180 to $864 (380 percent).

The companies had filed rate increase requests with the Commission, which were suspended for investigation on Oct. 14, 2010. Those previously filed rate increase requests are still pending before the Commission. More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s website

The companies serve about 45 customers in portions of Palmyra Township, Pike 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.

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Docket nos. P-2010-2204818 (wastewater); P-2010-2204817 (water)

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722