Welcome to our dedicated page for Essential Utilities news (Ticker: WTRG), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Essential Utilities stock.
News about Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) focuses on its activities as a regulated water, wastewater and natural gas utility and on developments that affect its customers, investors and communities. The company’s releases highlight operational updates across its Aqua and Peoples brands, financial results, regulatory milestones and major capital projects.
Investors following WTRG news will see regular coverage of quarterly earnings announcements, dividend declarations and financing activities such as senior note issuances. These updates provide insight into Essential’s financial performance, infrastructure investment levels and capital structure as it pursues long-term utility projects.
Operational news often centers on infrastructure upgrades and water quality initiatives. Aqua Pennsylvania has reported multiple PFAS treatment projects supported by PENNVEST funding, as well as new treatment systems designed to meet state and federal drinking water standards. Aqua Indiana has announced major wastewater treatment plant expansions intended to increase capacity, protect local waterways and support regional growth.
Essential also issues news on strategic initiatives and partnerships, including its agreement to invest in a large data center project in Greene County, Pennsylvania, where Aqua will design and operate a water treatment plant and Peoples will provide natural gas-related services. Another key news theme is corporate transactions, such as the announced all-stock merger agreement with American Water Works Company, Inc., which would make Essential a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water if completed.
Community-focused stories describe the work of the Essential Foundation, United Way campaigns and the Fall for Food Banks initiative, documenting millions of dollars in donations and extensive employee volunteer hours dedicated to hunger relief and other local causes. For a comprehensive view of WTRG, readers can use this news feed to track financial updates, infrastructure projects, regulatory developments, community engagement and the progress of the planned merger with American Water.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has appointed Jeanne Russo as vice president of communications and Sumit Nair as vice president and chief information officer. Russo brings over 25 years of communications experience from various industries, including broadband and retail. In her role, she will oversee all internal and external communications. Nair, a seasoned IT executive with nearly 30 years of experience, will manage 130 IT professionals and enhance operational efficiency. This strategic leadership expansion aims to bolster Essential’s capabilities in addressing water and gas infrastructure challenges.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) reported a third-quarter net income of $68.6 million ($0.26 EPS), up from $50.5 million ($0.19 EPS) in Q3 2021. Revenues increased by 20.1% to $434.6 million, driven by higher rates and customer growth. Operating expenses rose to $151.4 million, reflecting acquisitions and inflationary pressures. The board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.2870 per share. The company reaffirmed 2022 EPS guidance of $1.75 to $1.80, with significant ongoing infrastructure investments aimed at supporting growth and sustainability.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) appointed W. Bryan Lewis to its board of directors, enhancing its governance with his extensive investment expertise. Lewis, the chief investment officer at United States Steel Corporation, has a successful track record of managing large pension funds and reducing investment risks. His appointment aligns with Essential's commitment to diversity and growth. The company, serving 5.5 million customers in 10 states, focuses on water, wastewater, and natural gas services while prioritizing infrastructure investment and environmental stewardship.
The board of directors of Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.2870 per share, payable on December 1, 2022 to shareholders of record on November 11, 2022. This represents a 7% increase from the December 2021 dividend of $0.2682. The annual dividend rate is now $1.1480 compared to $1.0728 last year. Essential has maintained consecutive dividends for 77 years and has increased them 32 times in the last 31 years.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) announced that its subsidiary, Aqua Pennsylvania, has secured a $5.5 million grant from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Authority for constructing a treatment facility in Horsham Township. This facility aims to remove harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from local water. The funding will alleviate costs for Aqua ratepayers and support the installation of new ion exchange contactors. This is the second PENNVEST grant received by Aqua, following a $4.5 million grant in 2020 for a similar project.
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Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) is set to announce its earnings for the quarter ending September 30, 2022, before the market opens on November 7, 2022. A conference call for financial analysts will follow at 11 a.m. EST on the same day, with a live webcast available on their website. The call will be archived for 90 days, and an audio replay will be accessible starting at 2 p.m. EST that day for 10 business days. Essential provides water and natural gas services to around 5.5 million customers across 10 states.
The University of Pittsburgh and Peoples Gas, a subsidiary of Essential Utilities, announced a research partnership to explore hydrogen as a future energy source. This collaboration aims to benchmark and study the safe transportation of hydrogen through natural gas pipelines. Following initial research, a pilot project will assess the impact of hydrogen on the existing infrastructure. Hydrogen's potential as a non-carbon energy source could play a crucial role in reducing emissions in the Appalachian Basin, leveraging natural gas reserves.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) announced that its subsidiary, Aqua Pennsylvania, has halted exclusivity discussions regarding a potential acquisition with the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority. The company expressed surprise and disappointment at this decision but remains committed to providing solutions to water and sewer utilities in the region. Essential has completed two acquisitions in 2022 and currently has seven additional signed agreements totaling approximately $364.5 million, targeting over 217,000 retail customers.
Essential Utilities has appointed Kimberly Joyce as corporate secretary, in addition to her current role as Vice President of Regulatory and Government Affairs. This transition aims to leverage Joyce's 15 years of experience with the company, enhancing the board's oversight and compliance with Securities & Exchange Commission regulations. Joyce previously worked with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission and holds a B.A. in economics, an M.B.A., and a J.D. This move is expected to ensure organizational stability and continuity.