Press Release

PUC Investigates Rate Increase of the Columbia Water Co.

Published on 9/11/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to investigate a proposed $616,402 (16.5 percent) rate increase for The Columbia Water Co (Columbia). 

The Commission voted 5-0 to investigate the proposed increase.  It is suspended for up to seven months until April 13, 2009, and will assign the matter to the Office of Administrative Law Judge for public hearings and a recommended decision or settlement .

Under the company’s proposal, the average yearly bill based on an annual usage of 60,000 gallons for residential customers would increase from $441 to $510.72 (15.8 percent). 

More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s Web site.

The company provides water service approximately 8,700 customers in Lancaster County.  According to the company’s filing, the proposed increase is necessary to realize a reasonable rate of return on the company’s fixed capital investment and to recover increased operating expenses. 

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 Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722