Press Release

PUC Approves Settlement for Lower Rate Increase than Requested for City of Lancaster Wastewater Co.

Published on 4/18/2013

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a lower rate increase than requested by the City of Lancaster (City).

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the joint settlement, which was reached among the company, the Office of Consumer Advocate, the Office of Small Business Advocate and the Commission’s Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement.

Under the settlement, the city will increase wastewater revenues by $399,000 (42.4 percent) for customers residing outside the city’s limits.

Under the settlement, the annual bill for the average residential customer using 52,000 gallons a year will increase a total of $74.32, from $152.12 to $226.44 (48.7 percent). 

Under the City of Lancaster’s original proposal, the annual bill for the average residential customer using 52,000 gallons a year would have increased a total of $100.08, from $152.12 to $252.20 (65.8 percent). 

The City of Lancaster provides wastewater service to approximately 3,100 residents outside the city.   The Commission only has jurisdiction for rates and service over those customers who live outside the city and receive service from the City of Lancaster. 

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner. 

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Docket Numbers R-2012-2310366; C-2012-2333112; C-2012-2329756 and C-2012-2330719

Contact:

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