PUC Acts To Appoint PA American Water Company To Operate Rock Spring Water Company, Negotiate Long-Term Solution With State College Water Authority

On March 13, the Public Utility Commission took action to ensure the provision of safe and reliable water service for approximately 1,000 customers served by Rock Spring Water Company, appointing Pennsylvania American Water Company as receiver while directing efforts toward a long-term solution.

The Commission voted 5-0 to grant an emergency petition filed by the state’s consumer advocate to appoint a receiver for Rock Spring – a small rural water utility facing ongoing service challenges. 

Additionally, the Commission’s order directs Rock Spring to engage in serious and accelerated discussions for the potential sale of its system to the State College Borough Water Authority (SCBWA), which could provide a permanent resolution for customers.

The Commission’s action follows a joint motion offered by Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank and Commissioner John F. Coleman, Jr., which details the steps necessary to address the challenges facing Rock Spring while working toward a long-term solution.

“These measures should prompt the finalization of a permanent acquisition of Rock Spring while ensuring that Rock Spring’s customers receive safe and reliable water service in the interim,” noted the joint motion.

Receivership & Next Steps

PAWC was appointed as the receiver because it is a PUC-jurisdictional entity, enabling the Commission to act quickly under its authority to ensure continued operations at Rock Spring.

At the same time, the Commission is directing Rock Spring to negotiate, in earnest, toward the transfer of its system to SCBWA. 

If an agreement is reached, Rock Spring is expected to file an application within 90 days seeking Commission approval to transfer its assets and abandon its certificate of public convenience. 

Given the urgency of the situation, the Commission is also working to streamline the review process for any such application, including a shortened protest period and expedited review timelines.

While the PUC’s decision marks an important step toward stabilizing water service for Rock Spring customers, the Commission remains focused on facilitating a long-term resolution that provides continued reliability and efficiency for affected residents.

Click Here for PUC announcement.  Docket No.: P-2024-3051313

Visit the Public Utility Commission website for more information on its responsibilities and actions.

Related Articles:

-- PUC Issues Emergency Order To Veolia Water To Take Over Wonderview Sanitary Water Facilities In Columbia County After Owner Abandoned The System  [PaEN]

-- PUC Acts To Appoint PA American Water Company To Operate Rock Spring Water Company, Negotiate Long-Term Solution With State College Water Authority  [PaEN]

-- PUC Approves Sale Of Troubled East Dunkard Water System In Greene County To PA American Water Company  [PaEN] 

[Posted: March 15, 2025]  PA Environment Digest