Press Release

PUC Approves Lower Rate Increase than Requested by a Monroe County Water Co. for Wastewater Service

Published on 4/23/2014

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to approve a joint settlement allowing a lower increase in annual rates than originally requested for Penn Estates Utilities, Inc. – Sewer Division (Penn Estates), Monroe County, for its wastewater service.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the joint settlement that was reached among the company, the PUC’s Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement and the Office of Consumer Advocate which was resolved through mediation.  The settlement allows an increase in annual rates of $100,000 (12.85 percent) in lieu of the $184,498 (23.7 percent) increase originally requested. 

Under the settlement, the total monthly bill for each sewer customer will increase from $41.26 to $46.56. Under the company’s original proposal, the total monthly bill for each sewer customer would have increased to $51.04.  The availability rate will increase from $31.05 to $35.04 quarterly. 

Additionally, Penn Estates agrees not to file for another general wastewater rate increase for one year after Commission approval of the settlement.

Penn Estates provides service to approximately 1,610 customers in Stroud and Pocono townships, Monroe County. 

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.

###

Docket No.  R-2013-2370455

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722