Aqua Pennsylvania Expands Footprint with Greenville Sanitary Authority Acquisition

Aqua Pennsylvania, a subsidiary of Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG), has recently finalized its acquisition of the Greenville Sanitary Authority's wastewater system in Mercer County, PA. This strategic move aligns with the company's long-term growth strategy and brings significant benefits to both Aqua and the local community.

The $18 million purchase, approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) on December 12, 2024, marks the first transaction approved by the PUC since implementing improvements to the fair market value statute passed in 2016. This acquisition is expected to reenergize the municipal acquisition market in Pennsylvania in 2025.



As part of the transaction, Aqua Pennsylvania plans to invest $20 million over the next decade in system improvements to address safety, operational, and environmental deficiencies. These improvements include storage, labeling, and dechlorination issues, wastewater treatment plant ventilation concerns, insufficient emergency/standby power generation, and permit compliance issues. By addressing these concerns, Aqua aims to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective wastewater treatment services to the residents of Mercer County.

"Our expertise affords us the knowledge to provide necessary improvements at a fraction of the cost that would otherwise have been borne by the authority and its customers," said Aqua Pennsylvania President Marc Lucca. "The repairs and upgrades we will make to Greenville's wastewater system are cost effective and will improve reliability and performance."

Customers' base rates will not change after Aqua begins operating the system, and any future rate change will be subject to approval by the PUC. Eligible customers seeking assistance with their sewer bills will gain access to Aqua's low-income Customer Assistance Program (CAP) and the hardship fund Aqua Aid.

This acquisition is the fourth water and wastewater acquisition Essential Utilities, Inc. has completed in the past 12 months, adding 2,600 customers or 4,520 equivalent dwelling units (EDUs) to its service area. Aqua Pennsylvania provides water and wastewater service to approximately 1.5 million people in 32 counties throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

By expanding its service area and investing in infrastructure, Aqua Pennsylvania continues to deliver safe, clean, reliable services that improve the quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities. The acquisition of the Greenville Sanitary Authority wastewater system is a testament to the company's commitment to sustainable growth, operational excellence, and superior customer experience.



In conclusion, Aqua Pennsylvania's acquisition of the Greenville Sanitary Authority wastewater system is a strategic move that aligns with the company's long-term growth strategy. This acquisition brings significant benefits to both Aqua and the local community, including expanded service area, improved infrastructure, and cost savings. As Aqua continues to invest in its systems and expand its footprint, it remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable wastewater treatment services to its customers.