PA American Water seeks rate hike; Butler County customers could see bills increase
Pennsylvania American Water announced Friday that it is seeking approval for new water and wastewater rates that would impact 2.4 million customers across the state, including those in Butler County.
Under the request made to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, typical residential water customers in the county would pay about $13 more per month, while those served by the wastewater system would see an estimated $25 monthly increase.
The company emphasized that the commission must review and approve any rate adjustments before they can be implemented. If they are approved, the new rates would take effect in August 2026, according to the news release.
The review process is set to include public input hearings, written comments and participation from consumer advocacy groups.
The proposal is tied to more than $1.2 billion in planned system upgrades through mid-2027, including $75 million targeted to Butler County’s treatment and collection systems.
Upgrades in the area include three wet-weather storage tanks with a combined capacity of 555,000 gallons, along with boosted pumping capacity at multiple lift stations. A spokesperson said the improvements will “prevent overflows during major storms, protecting public health, local rivers and community safety.”
Additionally, the company is seeking approval for a new Renter Assistance Pilot Program to assist low-income renters in master-metered buildings in Butler and Scranton, offering quarterly stipends modeled after existing customer assistance discounts.
