Press Release

PUC Approves Settlement for Lower Rate Increase than Requested by Pike County Water, Wastewater Co.

Published on 7/15/2010

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to approve a settlement approving a lower rate increase than requested by Pennsylvania Utility Co., Pike County.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the settlement, which was agreed to by the Office of Consumer Advocate, the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff and other formal complainants.

Under the settlement the company will raise annual water rates by about $70,000 (43.3 percent) as opposed to the proposed $112,309 (69.4 percent). The company’s annual wastewater rates will increase by about $275,000 (173.1 percent) as opposed to the proposed $369,827 (232.8 percent).

The wastewater increase will take place in phases with an increase of $178,750 taking effect immediately and a $96,250 taking effect in 12 months. The second phase will not take effect until certain conditions are met.

Under the settlement, the average quarterly residential bill for water customers using 9,000 gallons a quarter will increase $32.15 from $68.57 to $100.72 a quarter. The original proposal called for an increase of $51.79 to $120.36.

Under the settlement, the average quarterly residential bill for wastewater customers using 9,000 gallons a quarter will increase $83.84 from $68.57 to $152.41 a quarter in phase 1 and to $197.01 in phase 2. The original proposal called for an increase of $172.79 to $241.36 a quarter.

Pennsylvania Utility Co. provides water and wastewater services to 561 customers in Lehman Township, Pike County.  More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s website.

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 Number R-2009-2103937

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• Press Secretary
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