SCRANTON, PA — A large crowd of residents and local officials filled the fifth floor of Brennan Hall at the University of Scranton on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, to voice their concerns during the only Northeast Pennsylvania public hearings on a proposed rate increase by Pennsylvania American Water Company (PAWC). Two Administrative Law Judges from the Public Utility Commission (PUC) presided over the afternoon and evening sessions, gathering formal testimony that will influence the state's final decision this summer.
The overwhelming majority of those who testified spoke in opposition to the request, which would raise typical residential bills by $120 to $240 per year. Opponents highlighted the cumulative burden of "back-to-back" increases, noting that rates also rose in both 2023 and 2024. Many speakers expressed fear for residents on fixed incomes—such as seniors and students—arguing that water is a basic human necessity that is becoming increasingly unaffordable in the region. Local leaders also questioned the fairness of the hike given PAWC's status as a profitable, investor-owned utility.
In contrast, representatives and supporters of the rate increase emphasized that the additional revenue is vital for the safety and reliability of the Commonwealth’s water supply. PAWC has stated the funds are needed to support $1.2 billion in infrastructure investments through 2027. These projects include replacing aging water and sewer mains, some of which are over a century old, as well as continuing the removal of lead service lines. Furthermore, the revenue would support the installation of advanced treatment technology to address emerging contaminants like PFAS and modernize wastewater systems to meet stricter environmental standards.
The Scranton sessions are part of a 12-hearing statewide tour. The PUC has already held hearings in Washington County and will continue with sessions in Harrisburg, Reading, and Coatesville throughout the remainder of the month. For those unable to attend in person, two telephonic hearings are scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 21, at 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The PUC is expected to issue a final ruling on the request by August 13, 2026, with any approved rates likely going into effect shortly thereafter. Residents who did not testify in person can still file formal comments or complaints through the PUC's website.