Press Release

PUC Approves Settlement on Rate Increase Request by Water Company Serving Portions of Montgomery, Chester, Berks Counties

Published on 1/27/2011

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement allowing a rate increase request for Superior Water Co. Inc.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve a settlement that will be implemented in two phases. The first phase allows the company to increase rates by about $380,000 effective January 2011. The second phase includes an increase of $24,190 that will be effective on July 1, 2011. The settlement reflects the company’s original proposal for an increase in rates of about $404,190.

Under the settlement, a typical residential customer using 4,838 gallons of water per month would see an increase from $52.57 to $62.27 per month in the first phase and an increase to $62.89 in the second phase. According to the settlement, the company has agreed not to seek another rate increase before April 28, 2012.

On Sept. 23, 2010, the company’s request was suspended for up to seven months. A settlement that was reached between parties in the case including the company, the Office of Consumer Advocate and the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff was filed in December 2010. More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s website. 

Superior Water Co. provides service to about 3,626 customers in portions of  Douglass, New Hanover, Upper and Lower Pottsgrove, Upper Frederick and Worcester Townships, Montgomery County; North Coventry Township, Chester County; and Washington Township, Berks 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 No. R-2010-2191376

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• Press Secretary
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