West Virginia American Water Gains $20.5M Rate Hike, $6–$7 Monthly Bill Increase
West Virginia Public Service Commission approved a $20.5 million rate increase for West Virginia American Water to support over $239 million in system investments. Residential customers using 3,000 gallons will see a ~$6 monthly water bill hike and wastewater customers a ~$7 hike, plus a new 20% SRRRS discount.
1. Rate Increase Approval
On March 5, the West Virginia Public Service Commission authorized new rates that boost West Virginia American Water’s annualized revenues by $20.5 million, excluding previously recovered infrastructure surcharges. This marks the first rate adjustment since 2024 and aims to provide stable funding for ongoing operations.
2. Customer Bill Impact
Effective March 1, water customers consuming 3,000 gallons per month will incur an average bill increase of approximately $6, while wastewater customers will see an average $7 rise. Notices detailing the new rates will be included in customers’ next bills and posted online under Customer Service & Billing.
3. Infrastructure Investment Funding
The approved rate increase underpins more than $239 million in infrastructure improvements undertaken since the last adjustment, including pipeline upgrades, treatment plant enhancements and regulatory compliance projects. These investments are designed to maintain safe, clean and reliable water and wastewater services across the state.
4. Customer Assistance Programs
An additional customer discount program offers eligible households enrolled in Special Reduced Rate Residential Service (SRRRS) a further 20% off their tariff rate. This complements existing H2O Help to Others assistance and flexible payment arrangements to help mitigate the impact of the rate changes.