Essential Utilities Releases Comment on EPA Promulgation of PFAS Maximum Contaminant Level

Aqua, which has been testing for and addressing “forever chemicals” for over seven years, provides more details in progress to remove PFAS from drinking water supply

Essential Utilities Chairman and CEO Christopher Franklin shared the following comments today:

“Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the final regulation for six PFAS compounds, known as “forever chemicals,” in our drinking water.

“I’m proud of the team at Aqua for the work they have done to address PFAS as we’ve waited for the EPA to set a limit on these toxins. These efforts include testing our water systems over the past several years, working with officials and regulators to set our own PFAS standard in 2020 to help guide our treatment efforts, and designing and constructing treatment facilities.

“Over the past year we’ve built on that commitment through our industry-leading approach to share PFAS test results in our annual water quality reports. We’ve also launched dozens of new PFAS projects across our footprint and, and we’re developing innovative engineering approaches to help expedite our plans to meet the new standard.

“During this time, we continued advocating for our customers so that cleanup costs are paid by the companies responsible for this situation. We are progressing in lawsuits against the chemical manufacturers and others responsible for PFAS chemicals in our water sources, and we’re applying for and securing grants and low-interest loans to help us reduce costs.

“We applaud the EPA for formally setting limits, and we look forward to sharing our updates as we work toward meeting them. Customers can learn more about our commitment to addressing PFAS at AquaWater.com/PFAS.”

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 more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.

Operating as the Aqua and Peoples brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 9 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.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240409811475/en/