Core Viewpoint - Unitil Corporation has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Aquarion Water Company and its subsidiaries for $100 million, including the assumption of $30 million in debt, which is expected to enhance long-term earnings growth [1][2][3] Group 1: Transaction Details - The acquisition involves Aquarion Water Company of Massachusetts, Aquarion Water Company of New Hampshire, and Abenaki Water Co., Inc. [1] - The total purchase price is $100 million, which includes the assumption of approximately $30 million in debt [1] - The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities, New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission, and Maine Public Utilities Commission [1][2] Group 2: Operational Impact - The Aquarion Companies operate approximately 330 miles of water distribution mains, serving around 12,000 customers in Massachusetts and 11,000 customers in New Hampshire [2] - The estimated rate base for the Aquarion Companies is approximately $78 million as of December 31, 2024, and is forecasted to grow to $87 million by December 31, 2025 [2] - The acquisition is expected to be earnings accretive in the long term, supporting Unitil's projected earnings per share growth of 5% to 7% [2] Group 3: Strategic Rationale - The acquisition is viewed as a unique opportunity for Unitil to expand into a complementary regulated utility service in its current operational states [3] - Unitil aims to integrate the locally managed teams of the Aquarion Companies while maintaining high service quality for the communities served [3] Group 4: Financing and Advisory - Unitil has secured committed debt financing from Scotiabank to fund the acquisition [3] - Scotiabank and the law firm Dentons are advising Unitil on this transaction [3]