American Water: A New Year's Resolution for Water Services

As the calendar turns to 2025, American Water, the nation's largest regulated water and wastewater utility company, reflects on the past year and looks ahead to the future. The company, which serves over 14 million people across 14 states and 18 military installations, has made significant strides in its commitment to sustainability, water quality, and customer satisfaction. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that American Water continues to provide safe, clean, and reliable water services to its customers.

One of the key challenges facing American Water is the aging infrastructure that provides water and wastewater services to its customers. Many of the pipes and treatment facilities that were installed in the mid-1900s are now reaching the end of their useful life, leading to water main breaks, leaks, and other disruptions in service. To address this issue, American Water has committed to investing $34 - $38 billion over the next 10 years to replace aging pipes and upgrade existing or construct new treatment, storage, and pumping facilities. This investment will not only improve the reliability of water services but also enhance the resiliency of the company's systems in the face of extreme weather events.

Another challenge for American Water is the need to balance the investment needs of its infrastructure with the affordability of water services for its customers. The company aims to limit the wallet share of its average residential customers' bills to 1% or less of median household income. To achieve this goal, American Water is working to optimize its operations and invest in innovative technologies that can improve water efficiency and reduce costs. The company is also committed to helping its customers conserve water and reduce their own water bills through education and outreach programs.

American Water is also taking steps to address emerging contaminants and water quality issues. The company led research efforts on PFAS, developing publicly available risk communication materials for water systems under the EPA's Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 5 (UCMR5). This proactive stance demonstrates American Water's dedication to staying ahead of emerging challenges and enhancing its reputation as a leader in addressing water quality issues.

In addition to these challenges, American Water is also committed to reducing its environmental impact and mitigating the risks associated with climate change. The company has set science-based, Paris Agreement-aligned emissions reduction goals and is working to improve the resiliency of its water systems in the face of extreme weather events. American Water is also committed to improving water access and affordability for its customers, particularly those in low-income communities.



To achieve its goals, American Water is committed to working with communities, regulators, elected officials, and key stakeholders to create a better tomorrow for its customers and the communities it serves. The company is also committed to investing in its employees and providing them with the training and development opportunities they need to succeed.

In conclusion, American Water is committed to providing safe, clean, and reliable water services to its customers while also addressing the challenges of aging infrastructure, affordability, and emerging contaminants. By investing in its infrastructure, optimizing its operations, and working with its stakeholders, American Water is well-positioned to achieve its goals and continue to be a leader in the water services industry. As the company looks ahead to the new year, it is resolved to continue its commitment to sustainability, water quality, and customer satisfaction.