H2O America Named to Newsweek’s America’s Most Responsible Companies 2026 for Second Consecutive Year

Rhea-AI Summary

H2O America (Nasdaq: HTO) was named to Newsweek’s America’s Most Responsible Companies 2026 list for the second consecutive year, recognizing ESG performance across environment, social, and governance categories.

Key disclosed achievements: 43% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions vs 2019 toward a 50% 2030 goal, 73% increase in solar generation from eight new projects, $353 million in system upgrades, replacement of 46 miles of pipeline, installation of 20,000+ smart meters, service to 1.6 million people, $400,000 in charitable contributions, and an 85.2% customer satisfaction rating.

Positive

• Scope 1&2 emissions down 43% vs 2019 baseline
• Solar generation increased 73% with 8 new projects
• $353 million invested in resilient system upgrades
• 46 miles of pipeline replaced
• Provides water and wastewater to 1.6 million people
• 85.2% customer satisfaction rating

Negative

• Emissions target not yet met: 7 percentage points short of 2030 50% Scope 1/2 reduction goal

SAN JOSE, Calif., Dec. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- H2O America (Nasdaq: HTO), one of the nation’s largest investor-owned water and wastewater utilities, has been named to Newsweek’s America’s Most Responsible Companies 2026 list, which recognizes U.S. companies demonstrating outstanding commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. Earlier this year, H2O America was one of two utilities recognized in Newsweek’s list of Greenest Companies 2026.

“We are honored to once again be recognized as one of America’s Most Responsible Companies,” said Andrew F. Walters, CEO of H2O America. “Our employees go above and beyond every day to strengthen the communities we serve—protecting vital water resources, advancing clean energy, expanding affordability programs, and supporting local nonprofits. This recognition underscores how deeply responsibility and service are embedded in who we are and how we operate.”

The ranking evaluates the top 2,000 U.S.-based public companies using more than 30 key performance indicators and a reputation survey of 18,000 consumers to assess CSR achievements across environmental, social, and governance categories. This is the second consecutive year that H2O America has been recognized by the Newsweek ranking.

H2O America’s operations span California, Connecticut, Maine, and Texas, where the company provides high-quality water and wastewater services to more than 1.6 million people. The company’s 2024 sustainability achievements, highlighted in its recently released Corporate Sustainability Report, reflect significant progress across all pillars of ESG. Key accomplishments include:

Environmental Progress

• 43% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions from the 2019 baseline—advancing toward the 2030 goal of 50%.
• 73% increase in solar energy generation, supported by eight new solar projects, including the company’s first in Texas.
• Major investments in resilient infrastructure, including $353 million in system upgrades, 46 miles of pipeline replaced, and 20,000+ smart meters installed.
  

Community & Social Impact

• $400,000 in charitable contributions and the launch of the Force for Good Foundation, supporting community nonprofits across H2O America’s service areas.
• Expanded customer support, including flexible payment plans and rate assistance programs contributing to an 85.2% customer satisfaction rating.

Governance Leadership

• A majority-female board, including eight of ten independent directors, and the launch of an enterprise risk management program to strengthen oversight and accountability.
  

The full list of honorees is available on Newsweek.

About H2O America

H2O America (NASDAQ: HTO) is a national investor-owned network of local water and wastewater utilities united by one purpose: delivering clean, high-quality water to the communities we call home.

For H2O America, providing water is more than a responsibility—it’s a privilege. Every connection we serve helps sustain what matters most: public health, vibrant neighborhoods, and a reliable future.

Across approximately 407,000 water and wastewater service connections, we invest in critical infrastructure to strengthen water supply for generations to come. We stay actively engaged in our local communities while focusing on operational excellence and delivering sustainable, long-term value to our investors.

Water is local—and so are our roots. Through our four regional water utilities—Connecticut Water, Maine Water, San Jose Water, and Texas Water—we proudly serve more than 1.6 million people across the country. Together, we protect what’s precious.

For more information, please visit our website at www.H2O-America.com.

Media and Investor Relations Contacts:

MediaRelations@H2O-America.com

InvestorRelations@H2O-America.com

FAQ

What did H2O America (HTO) announce on December 4, 2025?

H2O America announced it was named to Newsweek’s America’s Most Responsible Companies 2026 list for the second consecutive year.

How much have H2O America (HTO) reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions?

H2O America reported a 43% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions versus the 2019 baseline.

What infrastructure investments did H2O America report for 2024?

The company disclosed $353 million in system upgrades, replacement of 46 miles of pipeline, and installation of 20,000+ smart meters.

How many people does H2O America (HTO) serve and where?

H2O America serves more than 1.6 million people across California, Connecticut, Maine, and Texas.

What progress has H2O America made on renewable energy?

Solar energy generation increased by 73%, supported by eight new solar projects including the company’s first in Texas.

What community and social contributions did H2O America report?

The company reported $400,000 in charitable contributions, launched the Force for Good Foundation, and expanded customer affordability programs.