Aqua Pennsylvania Acquires Ulster Municipal Authority Water System in Bradford County

Acquisition reflects company’s commitment to providing highest quality drinking water service

BRYN MAWR, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) announced today its Aqua Pennsylvania subsidiary has finalized its $450,000 purchase of the water system assets of the Ulster Municipal Authority in Bradford County. The system serves approximately 180 customers in Ulster Township. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) approved the sale on August 27, 2026.

“We welcome our new customers in Ulster Township to the Essential family,” said Essential Utilities Chairman & CEO Christopher Franklin. “Water plays an important role in everyday life, and we are committed to making the necessary investments to ensure safe and reliable drinking water for this community 24/7.”

Aqua Pennsylvania has identified the need to invest approximately $2 million in the system over the next five years. Necessary upgrades will be made to strengthen water infrastructure. Aqua will also invest in improving system operations and meeting regulatory, environmental, and cybersecurity demands.

“We learned during our initial inspection that some of the facilities are in need of repair and replacement, which will be a focus of our initial efforts,” said Aqua Pennsylvania President Marc Lucca. “Residents will benefit from a highly trained staff of water professionals who provide high-quality drinking water and service. We want our customers in Ulster to have peace of mind knowing that when they turn on the tap, water is flowing. Aqua has the leadership and resources to improve the water system, and we look forward to serving this community for years to come.”

Customers’ base rates will not change at the closing of the transaction. Any future rate change will be subject to approval of the PUC. Eligible customers seeking assistance with their water bills will gain access to Aqua’s low-income Customer Assistance Program (CAP) and the hardship fund – Aqua Aid. Customers will also benefit from improved customer service and access to Aqua’s ePortal and mobile app to pay bills, track usage and more.

“This investment by Aqua brings additional resources and professional expertise to the Ulster water system, helping to address infrastructure needs while providing residents with reliable service for years to come,” said State Senator Gene Yaw. “I am pleased to see this transition move forward and look forward to the benefits it will bring to local customers.”

“Aqua’s purchase of the water system represents a long-term investment in safe, high-quality water for all residents of Ulster,” said State Representative Tina Pickett. “I appreciate Aqua’s commitment to making necessary upgrades to the facility and ensuring Ulster homes and businesses have reliable access to water.”

“We welcome Aqua to our community and are confident that they will bring a high-level of service to our residents while investing in the future of Ulster’s water infrastructure,” said Ulster Municipal Authority Chairman Frank Walker. “The Authority believes this sale is the best option for long-term sustainability of the water system, and we look forward to our partnership with Aqua.”

As part of the transition, residents can expect to receive communication from Aqua Pennsylvania outlining service schedules and procedures.

About Aqua Pennsylvania

Aqua Pennsylvania provides water and wastewater service to approximately 1.5 million people in 33 counties throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Visit AquaWater.com for more information or follow @MyAquaWater on Facebook and @MyAquaWater on X.

About Essential

Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities. With a focus on water, wastewater and natural gas, Essential is committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status. We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting thousands of acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint. Operating as the Aqua and Peoples brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across nine states. Essential is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S. Learn more at www.essential.co.

Forward-Looking Statements

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