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 provided its 2021 financial guidance, emphasizing a commitment to operational excellence, environmental sustainability, and growth through municipal acquisitions. The firm plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2035, equivalent to taking 76,000 cars off the road. Essential's growth includes five signed agreements for municipal acquisitions, adding approximately $420 million in rate base and serving 225,000 customers. For 2021, the expected income per diluted share ranges from $1.64 to $1.69, with substantial infrastructure investments planned.
Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) has announced the acquisition of wastewater assets from New Garden Township, serving roughly 2,100 customer connections in Chester County, Pennsylvania. This acquisition aims to enhance wastewater infrastructure and improve service offerings. CEO Christopher Franklin emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship, while Aqua Pennsylvania Wastewater President Marc Lucca expresses excitement over integrating New Garden Township's customers. This marks the eighth acquisition since December 2019, contributing approximately 18,500 wastewater and 4,000 water connections.
Aqua reminds homeowners to prevent water pipes from freezing as colder weather approaches. Key recommendations include:
- Having heat tape, pipe insulation, a space heater, and a hair dryer available.
- Locating and marking the master water valve.
- Ensuring outdoor meter pit lids are intact.
- Shutting off and draining outdoor faucets.
- Preventing drafts in unheated areas.
These steps are crucial for avoiding costly repairs from frozen pipes, which can occur when temperatures drop below freezing.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has appointed Erin O’Donnell as the new communications director, overseeing both internal and external communications for the company. With over 18 years of utility-related communications experience, O'Donnell previously served as the interim communications director and has worked with Peoples for a decade. Her role will focus on maintaining transparency in corporate communications. Essential Utilities serves approximately 5 million people across 10 states, delivering essential water and natural gas services.
Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) plans to disclose its 2021 guidance on January 11, 2021, before market opening. The company will share insights on financial outlook, capital investments, and ESG objectives. A conference call for financial analysts is scheduled for 11 a.m. EST on the same day, with a live webcast available. The session will be archived on its Investor Relations site for 90 days. As one of the largest water, wastewater, and natural gas providers in the U.S., Essential serves around 5 million customers across 10 states.
Aqua Pennsylvania has secured a $3.9 million grant from the Pennsylvania state budget to construct a treatment facility at its North Hills well in Upper Dublin Township. This funding aims to eliminate Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), which are part of the PFAS chemical family. The well has been offline since July 2018. The project is part of a broader commitment by Aqua's parent company, Essential Utilities, to address PFAS contamination across its service areas, impacting approximately 1.4 million customers in Pennsylvania.
Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) has announced that Christopher Franklin, the chairman and CEO, has been appointed to the Allegheny Conference on Community Development’s Board of Directors. This underscores Franklin's commitment to regional improvement, particularly in infrastructure, as noted in the context of the post-COVID recovery. Essential Utilities, serving approximately 5 million customers across 10 states, acquired Peoples, Pennsylvania's largest natural gas distributor, in 2020, enhancing its service capabilities and community engagement.
Aqua reminds customers to properly dispose of fats, oils, and grease during the holiday season to prevent wastewater system clogs. Key tips include:
- Do not pour cooking grease down drains.
- Dispose of grease in a metal can once cooled.
- Use strainers to catch solids.
- Throw food scraps in the trash.
Additionally, Aqua advises against flushing wipes, tissues, and napkins, which can cause plumbing backups. Aqua serves over 3 million people across various states and is part of Essential Utilities, enhancing infrastructure and service quality.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) announced that Colleen Arnold, president of its water and wastewater utilities, was honored as one of the Philadelphia Business Journal’s Women of Distinction for 2020. Arnold, who is the first woman to lead Aqua’s water utilities since its inception in 1886, is recognized for her extensive experience and leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has over 25 years in environmental engineering and has held various roles within Aqua, including deputy chief operating officer and director of water quality.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) reported third-quarter 2020 financial results, with net income of $55.7 million or $0.22 per share, down from $88.5 million or $0.38 per share in 2019. Revenue rose 43.1% to $348.6 million, driven by the acquisition of Peoples and higher water segment rates. Annual adjusted EPS guidance was refined to $1.53-$1.58. Despite significant operational challenges, capital expenditures reached $554.1 million, with infrastructure investments totaling $2.8 billion expected through 2022.