Press Release

PUC to Investigate Rate Increase Request by Water Co. in Lehigh County

Published on 7/14/2011

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to suspend and investigate a rate increase request by the City of Bethlehem-Bureau of Water, Lehigh County.

The Commission voted 5-0 to investigate the request, which proposed an annual increase of revenues of $996,710 (13.6 percent) for customers residing outside of the city’s limits.  A similar rate increase of approximately $1.761 million (15 percent) is being proposed for customers living inside the city, not subject to the PUC’s jurisdiction.  More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s website.     

The City of Bethlehem-Bureau of Water serves a total of 13,505 customers outside of the city’s limits.  Under the company’s proposal, the annual bill for an average residential customer using 60,000 gallons per year will increase $52.48 from $298.76 to $351.24 (17.6 percent).

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-2011-2244756

Contact:

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