Shareholders Approve American Water–Essential Utilities Merger with 99%/95% Votes
American Water shareholders voted approximately 99% in favor of issuing new shares for the proposed merger, while nearly 95% of Essential Utilities shares were cast in support at special meetings. The merger, pending Hart-Scott-Rodino clearance and public utility commission approvals, is set to close by end of Q1 2027.
1. Special Meetings Vote Results
At their February 10 special shareholder meetings, American Water shareholders approved the share issuance for the merger by approximately 99%, and Essential Utilities shareholders cast nearly 95% of votes in support of the transaction.
2. Remaining Regulatory and Closing Conditions
The merger remains subject to customary closing conditions, including clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act and approvals from applicable public utility commissions before it can be finalized.
3. Expected Transaction Timeline
Both companies anticipate completing the merger by the end of the first quarter of 2027, aligning integration planning across regulated water, wastewater and natural gas operations.