The Public Utility Commission last week began the series of hearings on Pennsylvania American Water Company’s rate increase request, which would average about 14.6 percent depending on a customer’s location and whether the service includes water, wastewater, or both. The company is seeking to add $168.7 million, which it says will be invested in its $1.2 billion water and wastewater system improvement program, a new summer wastewater billing adjustment program, and a renter assistance pilot program.
Pennsylvania American said in November that the average water customer’s bill would increase $14 per month, the average wastewater customer, $10 per month, and combined water/wastewater customers would see a $20 per month increase.
The nearest hearing to Indiana County was last Tuesday in Washington County. There are two in-person hearings remaining, on Tuesday near Reading and January 29th in Coatesville, outside of Philadelphia. There are also two telephonic hearings scheduled this Wednesday at 1 and 6 PM. Preregistration is encouraged at puc.pa.gov.
A decision by the PUC is anticipated no later than August 13th. The company was granted rate increases in 2023 and again in 2024.
