SJW (US:SJW) Globenewswire·2026-01-15 14:01Core Viewpoint - The Maine Public Utilities Commission approved a stipulation agreement for The Maine Water Company to unify its ten rate districts into a single rate structure, aimed at improving efficiency and addressing water infrastructure needs without increasing overall revenues [1][2]. Group 1: Rate Unification and Customer Impact - The unification of rates will provide a more efficient regulatory structure, allowing for necessary investments in aging water infrastructure across communities served by the company [2]. - A transition rate will be implemented starting February 1, 2026, with adjustments made over time until a uniform target rate is achieved, impacting typical residential customers' bills with changes ranging from a reduction of $3.23 to an increase of $4.94 per month based on current division rates [4]. - The agreement includes a needs-based financial assistance program, the Water Residential Assistance Program (WRAP), which offers a 22% discount on water bills for qualifying low-income residential customers [3][4]. Group 2: Company Background and Commitment - The Maine Water Company operates 12 public water systems, providing services to over 32,000 customers in 21 towns, and is a subsidiary of H2O America [6]. - The company has maintained high customer satisfaction ratings, averaging nearly 90% in independent surveys since 2012, reflecting its commitment to reliable service and operational excellence [5].