Pennsylvania American Water Acquires Audubon Water Company

News Summary

Pennsylvania American Water has completed the acquisition of Audubon Water Company, gaining approximately 2,900 connections in Lower Providence Township. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission approved the deal, allowing Pennsylvania American Water to invest $21.5 million over the next five years to enhance infrastructure and improve water quality for new customers. Initial rates will remain unchanged as the company integrates the new system and welcomes former Audubon employees to its team.

Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania American Water has successfully completed its acquisition of Audubon Water Company, a move that expands its customer base by approximately 2,900 connections in Lower Providence Township, Montgomery County. The announcement regarding the acquisition was made earlier this month, and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) approved the deal on January 23, 2025.

The Audubon Water Company operates in a strategically pivotal location, nestled between Pennsylvania American Water’s existing service areas in Royersford and Norristown. With this acquisition, Pennsylvania American Water aims to enhance service delivery and infrastructure within the region.

In an effort to improve the water supply system, Pennsylvania American Water plans to invest around $21.5 million over the next five years. This investment will target critical areas, including main restorations, technology upgrades, and enhancements to its treatment plants. These upgrades are anticipated to bring about significant improvements in water quality and reliability for the newly integrated customers.

The decision to sell the Audubon system came after an agreement was reached in September 2023. This strategic move was intended to facilitate necessary infrastructure upgrades that will benefit the residents of Lower Providence Township. In conjunction with this acquisition, Pennsylvania American Water has welcomed seven former employees from Audubon to its local team, further solidifying its commitment to maintaining service excellence.

Initial rates for Audubon customers will remain unchanged post-acquisition. Any future rate modifications will be subject to review and approval by the PUC, ensuring that customers are not immediately impacted by the transition. This approach aims to provide stability as Pennsylvania American Water integrates the new system into its operations.

The consolidation of water systems like this acquisition is increasingly viewed as a viable solution to address the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and the evolving regulatory landscape in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania American Water, being the largest water utility in the state, is well-positioned to offer comprehensive solutions to community water system issues.

In addition to its operational enhancements, Pennsylvania American Water offers customer assistance programs such as the H2O Help to Others Program™, designed to provide various financial assistance options to eligible customers. This initiative highlights the company’s commitment to supporting its customer base and ensuring accessibility to vital water services.

Pennsylvania American Water is a subsidiary of American Water, recognized as the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. The company serves over 14 million customers across 14 states, reinforcing its role as a leader in the water utility sector.

This acquisition marks a significant step forward in Pennsylvania American Water’s mission to deliver safe, reliable drinking water and to invest in infrastructure improvements that benefit the communities it serves. With continued investments in technology and system upgrades, the company aims to meet the demands of its growing customer base and uphold high standards for water quality and service.

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