Tidewater Utilities Seeks Rate Adjustment
Tidewater Utilities, Inc. is taking significant steps to ensure the ongoing delivery of high-quality drinking water by submitting a request for new rates to the Delaware Public Service Commission (PSC). This action is a direct response to the substantial investments the company has made over the past ten years to improve its infrastructure and meet increasing regulatory demands.
Investments in Infrastructure Development
In the last decade, Tidewater has invested over $150 million in crucial upgrades to its drinking water infrastructure. These improvements represent significant capital expenditures, including the construction of new water treatment facilities, enhancements to existing plants, and the installation of reliable backup power systems. Such upgrades are essential to maintaining a resilient and efficient water utility infrastructure.
Significant Improvements Achieved
Some of the notable enhancements made by Tidewater Utilities include:
- Building two elevated water storage tanks with a capacity of 1,000,000 gallons each to meet peak demand and bolster fire protection capabilities.
- Upgrading and enhancing multiple treatment plants to improve overall water quality.
- Installing interconnections to increase capacity and reliability during high-demand periods.
- Implementing backup power generation systems in over 30 facilities to minimize service interruptions.
- Realigning water mains to align with state road improvement projects.
- Adding new hydrants to strengthen fire protection services.
Dedication to Quality and Compliance
Bruce E. Patrick, President of Tidewater, emphasized that the company's primary goal is to provide safe and reliable drinking water at fair rates. He noted that operating costs have risen significantly over the past decade, prompting the company to focus on managing expenses while also making necessary infrastructure improvements. These upgrades are crucial for adhering to evolving regulations and addressing challenges related to climate and cybersecurity.
Proposed Rate Increase and Its Impact on Customers
Tidewater Utilities has proposed an annual revenue increase of approximately $10.3 million. The PSC will evaluate the rate request, and if it receives approval, the average residential customer using 5,000 gallons of water each month may see their bill increase by about $13.97.
About Tidewater Utilities, Inc.
With six decades of service, Tidewater Utilities, Inc. is recognized as a reliable provider of high-quality water services across various sectors, including residential, commercial, and fire protection. The company is committed not only to delivering water but also to investing in its workforce, infrastructure, and the communities it serves, with the goal of promoting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life.
Service Area and Operations
Tidewater is the largest private water supplier located south of the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. The company operates 175 active wells and 85 water treatment plants, serving around 57,800 customers and over 800 commercial entities across 470 distinct communities in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex County, Delaware.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact Bernadette Sohler, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Middlesex Water Company, via email at bsohler@middlesexwater.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind Tidewater Utilities' recent filing?
The filing is intended to request new rates that will enable the company to recover investments made over the past decade, aimed at improving service reliability and water quality.
How much has Tidewater invested in its infrastructure?
Tidewater has invested more than $150 million in essential improvements to its drinking water infrastructure over the last ten years.
What will happen to residential customers if the rate increase is approved?
If the rate increase is approved, the average residential customer's water bill could rise by approximately $13.97 per month based on a usage of 5,000 gallons.
What steps has Tidewater taken to improve fire protection?
The company has enhanced fire protection capabilities by adding new hydrants and constructing elevated water storage tanks.
Who should customers contact for additional information?
Customers can reach out to Bernadette Sohler at Middlesex Water Company for any further inquiries regarding the rate adjustment.
