DW 24-027 PENNICHUCK WATER WORKS, INC Petition for Approval of 2024 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge and DW 24-029 PENNICHUCK EAST UTILITY, INC. Petition for Approval of 2024 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge Order Nisi Approving Consolidated Settlement Agreement
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck Water Works Inc. (PWW) and Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU) (together the Companies) to implement a 2024 Consolidated Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) of 2.06 percent of the merged revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2023 which increases the average residential customer’s monthly bill by $1.32 per month, based on the approved consolidated rate ordered in Docket DW 23-101, to $65.15. The Commission also approves recovery over four months of a QCPAC recoupment charge of $4.22, subject to a final calculation submitted within 14 days of this order1, for service rendered from the bond and loan closing dates to the effective date of this order.2
The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of, and granted by, the Commission, are posted on the Commission’s website at
https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2024/24-027.html and https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2024/24-029.html.
Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. Petition for Financing Approval to Renew and Extend its Fixed Asset Line of Credit with TD Bank, NA
Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW, or the Company) requests approval to renew and extend its current $12,000,000 Fixed Asset Line of Credit (FALOC) through TD Bank, N.A. (TD Bank), which is set to expire on June 30, 2025. The Commission authorizes PWW to renew and extend its FALOC until September 30, 2027, and to increase the available credit line under the FALOC to $16,000,000. We also grant the Company’s motion for confidential treatment.
Pennichuck Water Works Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) Customer Notice for March 2025 filing at the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission
Pennichuck was granted approval by the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC) in DW 16-806 (Order #26,070) to implement a Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC). The QCPAC allows Pennichuck to bill a monthly surcharge based on a percentage of your monthly bill. The surcharge allows Pennichuck to recover the expenses associated with its ongoing investments in Qualified Capital Projects (QCPs) which are necessary to provide service to its customers, in compliance with State and Federal regulations, and to maintain its overall water supply and treatment infrastructure in a proactive and responsive manner.
Merger Activity
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc., Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, and Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. -Joint Petition for Approval of Consolidation of Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. and Pittsfield Aqueduct Company with Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. and Approval of Consolidated Rates
In this order, the Commission approves the merger agreement between Pennichuck East Utility (PEU), Pittsfield Aqueduct Company (PAC), and Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW or Surviving Corporation). Furthermore, the Commission approves a consolidated rate structure for all customers, resulting in a single consolidated rate with a final revenue requirement of $55,763,017 for the merged company.
Other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, all docket filings are available on the Commission’s website at https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2023/23-101.html.
See order here.
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc., Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, and Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. – Merger/Rate Filing Update
Locke Lake Customer Notice
Birch Hill Customer Notice
Sunrise Customer Notice
PWW Customer Notice
PEU Customer Notice
PAC Customer Notice
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc., Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, and Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. – Joint Amended Petition for Approval of Acquisition and Approval of Consolidated Rates
On March 8, 2024, Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU), Pittsfield Aqueduct Company (PAC), and Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) (collectively, the Joint Petitioners) filed an amended petition requesting that the Commission approve consolidated rates should PWW’s acquisition of PEU and PAC be approved. In support of their amended petition, the Joint Petitioners filed revised direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, George Torres, and John J. Boisvert, and revised proposed tariff pages. The Joint Petitioners also filed a motion for waiver of New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, Puc 1604.05(a) and motion for protective order. All docket filings, other than any information subject to confidential treatment, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2023/23-101.html.
See order here.
Pennichuck East Utility, Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Pennichuck Water Works – Joint Petition for the Approval of Consolidation
Prehearing Order and Order on Pending Motions
Pursuant to RSA 541-A:31, V (d), this order shall serve as a prehearing order from the February 14, 2024 prehearing conference. Furthermore, this order GRANTS the city of Nashua’s (Nashua) petition to intervene and GRANTS the Pennichuck Water Works, Inc., Pennichuck East Utility, Inc., and Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. (PAC) motion to amend petition, motion to waive notice, and motion for protective order.
See Order Here
Pennichuck East Utility, Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, and Pennichuck Water Works – Joint Petition for Approval of Consolidation
On December 15, 2023, Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU), Pittsfield Aqueduct Company (PAC), and Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW)(Collectively, the Joint Petitioners) filed a joint petition requesting that the Commission approve PWW’s acquisition of PEU and PAC pursuant to agreements and plans of merger. In support of their petition, the Joint Petitioners submitted the direct testimony and related attachments of: John J. Boisvert, Chief Engineer of PWW (Boisvert Testimony); Donald L. Ware, Chief Operating Officer of PWW (Ware Testimony); and George Torres, the Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, and Corporate Controller of PWW and Pennichuck Corporation (Penn Corp). All docket filings, other than any information subject to confidential treatment, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/docketbk/2023/23-101/html.
See Notice Here
Commencement of Adjudicative Proceeding and Notice of Prehearing Conference
The Commission has scheduled a Pre-Hearing Conference to be held at the Commission’s Offices in Concord on February 6, 2024 at 9:00am. At the Pre-hearing Conference, the Commission will hear preliminary statements from PWW and other parties, and will consider requests for formal intervener status. Individuals seeking to intervene in the proceedings shall file with the Commission a petition to intervene with copies sent to Joint Petitioners and any other parties on the service list, on or before January 19, 2024.
The Pre-Hearing Conference is open to the public. Customers and other interested parties are invited to attend the Pre-Hearing and comment on PWW’s request. Those unable to attend the hearing may submit written comments to the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission at 21 South Fruit Street, Suite 10, Concord NH 03301 or via e-mail at puc@puc.nh.gov
PWW Consolidated Rate Filing
On November 21, 2023, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. has filed rate schedules with the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission to change rates for all of its customer classes, including General Metered, Non-Metered, Municipal, and Private Fire Services, and portions of special contracts as well as for all the customers of Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. and the Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. See more regarding this filing at our PWW Consolidated Rate Filing page here.
PWW’s petition and subsequent docket filings for this case, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2023/23-088.html
PWW QCPAC Supplemental Customer Notice
Pennichuck Water Works, Inc.’s (“PWW”) notified PWW customers, via an insert in your December 2023 water bills, that PWW was applying for a QCPAC surcharge to recover the expenses associated with PWW’s investment in improvements to the infrastructure used to provide your water service. The notice projected a QCPAC surcharge of 3.75% over the rates being sought in DW 22-032. See more info in notice here.
PEU QCPAC Supplemental Customer Notice
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (“PEU”) notified PEU customers, via an insert in your December 2023 water bills, that PEU was applying for a QCPAC surcharge to recover the expenses associated with PEU’s investment in improvements to the infrastructure used to provide your water service. The notice projected a QCPAC surcharge of 8.67% over the rates that were granted in DW 20-156. See more info in notice here.
Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Tyngsborough Water District
In this Order Nisi, the Commission approves a second special contract reached between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) and the Tyngsborough (Massachusetts) Water District (TWD). We find that special circumstances exist which render a departure from PWW’s general rate schedules just and consistent with the public interest. The Commission also grants PWW’s motion for confidential treatment.
See Order Here.
Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. Petition for Upgrades to Nashua Water Treatment Facility, Order Nisi Approving Financing
Pursuant to RSA 369:1, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition for approval to enter into a loan for up to $11,450,000 from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) PFAS Remediation Grant and Loan Fund (PFAS Remediation Fund). The New Hampshire Department of Energy (DOE) filed a technical statement in which it stated that it supports PWW’s petition.
See Order Here.
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. Petition for Approval of Financing from CoBank, ACB Order NISI Approving Financing
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU, or the Company) requests approval of a long-term loan through CoBank, ACB (CoBank) in the amount of $1,890,931 to fund certain 2023 capital projects not otherwise funded. The loan proceeds will permit repayment and refinancing of amounts borrowed under the Company’s Fixed Asset Line of Credit (FALOC) through CoBank for those projects. The Commission authorizes PEU to borrow this amount through a new loan to be amortized over 25 years at an annual estimated interest rate of 7.50 percent, subject to market conditions. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2024/24-064.html.
Pennichuck Water Works, Pennichuck East Utility, and Pittsfield Aqueduct Company – Request For Change In Rates
Commencement of Adjudicative Proceeding and Notice of Hearing
On November 21, 2023, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW), Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU), and Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. (PAC) (collectively, the Pennichuck Utilities) filed a joint petition to establish consolidated rates for water services between the three companies for effect January 1, 2025. The request would have the effect of changing each company’s existing rates. On December 15, 2023, the New Hampshire Department of Energy (DOE) moved to dismiss the petition on the grounds that, among other reasons, it is inappropriate to adjudicate three separate utilities’ rates in a single docket. On December 21, 2023, the Pennichuck Utilities objected to the motion to dismiss. The motion remains pending before the Commission.
See Notice Here
Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Tyngsborough Water District
On May 6, 2024, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition requesting that the Commission approve a second special contract between it and the Tyngsborough Water District in Tyngsborough, Massachusetts (TWD). In support of its petition, PWW filed the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer (Ware Testimony), and related attachments, including a copy of the proposed contract and a statement of special circumstances. PWW also filed a motion for protective order and confidential treatment. All docket filings, other than any information subject to confidential treatment, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2024/24-071.html. See order here.
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc., Petition for Approval of 2023 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge – Order NISI Approving Settlement
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU, or the Company) to implement a 2023 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) of 1.35 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2022.
PWW’s petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2023/23-013.html.
Pennichuck Water Works Request for Change in Rates – Order NISI Approving Recovery of Rate Case Expenses and Granting Motion for Confidential Treatment
In this order, the Commission authorizes, on a nisi basis, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) to recover rate case expenses in the amount of $36,656.34 through a monthly surcharge of 10 cents per customer over a 12-month period.
PWW’s petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-032.html.
Pennichuck Water Works; Pennichuck East Utility; & Pittsfield Aqueduct Company – Notice of Intent to File Rate Schedules
Pursuant to N.H. RSA 378:3 and N.H. Code Admin Rules 1640.05(a), Pennichuck Water Works, Inc.; Pennichuck East Utility, Inc; and Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. hereby give notice of their intent to file rate schedules with the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission as one merged rate case with consolidated tariff rates.
Pennichuck East Utility & Pittsfield Aqueduct Company – Petition for Waiver and Increase to the Short-Term Debt Limit
This order permits Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. & Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. to incur short-term debt up to 18 percent of its net fixed plant until June 30, 2025.
The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2023/23-066.html.
Pittsfield Aqueduct Company – Petition for Approval to Enter into a Long-Term Intercompany Loan with Pennichuck Corporation
Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. (PAC or the Company), requests approval to convert $80,308 of variable short-term intercompany debt with Pennichuck Corporation (Penn Corp) to a fixed long-term intercompany loan. In this order, the Commission authorizes PAC to proceed with the long-term intercompany loan in the said amount.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for 2023 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. to implement a 2023 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge in the amount of 1.36 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2022, effective April 26, 2023, which increases the average residential customer’s monthly bill by $0.83 per month to $62.11. The Commission also approves recovery over three months of a QCPAC recoupment charge of $1.29 per month, subject to a final calculation submitted within 30 days of this order, for service rendered between April 26, 2023 and the date of this order approving the 2023 QCPAC. The Commission also approves a modified reporting schedule.
Public Notice
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby provides final notice of its decision to provide High Hazard Potential Dam (HHPD) grant funding for an action located in a floodplain. Funding would be provided through the New Hampshire Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to Pennichuck Water Works to rehabilitate its Bowers Pond Dam.
Pittsfield Aqueduct Company – Petition for Approval to Enter into a Long-Term Intercompany Loan with Pennichuck Corporation
Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. (PAC or the Company), requests approval to convert $80,308 of variable short-term intercompany debt with Pennichuck Corporation (Penn Corp) to a fixed long-term intercompany loan. In this order, the Commission authorizes PAC to proceed with the long-term intercompany loan in the said amount.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for 2023 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. to implement a 2023 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge in the amount of 1.36 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2022, effective April 26, 2023, which increases the average residential customer’s monthly bill by $0.83 per month to $62.11. The Commission also approves recovery over three months of a QCPAC recoupment charge of $1.29 per month, subject to a final calculation submitted within 30 days of this order, for service rendered between April 26, 2023 and the date of this order approving the 2023 QCPAC. The Commission also approves a modified reporting schedule.
Public Notice
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby provides final notice of its decision to provide High Hazard Potential Dam (HHPD) grant funding for an action located in a floodplain. Funding would be provided through the New Hampshire Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to Pennichuck Water Works to rehabilitate its Bowers Pond Dam.
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for Approval to Renew and Extend Fixed Asset Line of Credit with CoBank, ACB
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU, or the Company) requests approval to renew, extend, and increase its current fixed asset line of credit (FALOC) with CoBank, ACB (CoBank). The Commission authorizes PEU to renew, extend, and increase its FALOC from 3,000,000 to 4,000,000 for three years.
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for Approval of Financing from CoBank, ACB
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU, or the Company) requests approval of a long-term loan through CoBank, ACB (CoBank) in the amount of $744,755 to fund certain 2022 capital projects not otherwise funded. The load proceeds will permit repayment and refinancing of amounts borrowed under the Company’s Fixed Asset Line of Credit (FALOC) through CoBank for those projects. The Commission authorizes PEU to borrow this amount through a new loan to be amortized over 25 years at an annual estimated interest rate of 7.25 percent, subject to market conditions.
Pennichuck Water Works – Request for Change in Rates
In this order the Commission approves a final revenue requirement of $40,736,437, which includes proposed revenues from base rates of $40,143,045. This yields an annual revenue increase of $3,714,300, which adjusted for previously approved Qualified Capital Projects Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) revenues, yields a revenue increase of $1,150,938. The average residential customer using 7.76 hundred cubic feet of water and currently paying $55.46 monthly base rate, will see an increase to $61.27 per month. Accounting for the interim increases through the QCPAC, the monthly rate will see an increase of about 2.75 percent.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Merrimack Village District, Inc.
In this order, the commission approves a special contract for the wholesale supply of water from Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. to Merrimack Village District Water Works.
Commission Approves Reconciliation of PWW-MVD Emergency Special Contract
In this order, the Commission accepts the revised reconciliation calculation submitted by Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) and approves the refund of $46,881.63 to Merrimack Village District Water Works (MVD) pursuant to the Settlement Agreement between PWW, MVD, and the NH Department of Energy (DOE) and the special contract between PWW and MVD Approved in Order No. 26, 597 on March 25, 2022 in this docket.
Petition for Approval to Renew and Extend its Fixed Asset Line of Credit with TD Bank, N.A. Order NISI Approving Financing.
Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW, or the Company) requests approval to renew and extend its current fixed asset line of credit (FALOC) with TD Bank, N.A. (TD Bank), which is set to expire on June 30, 2023. The Commission authorizes PWW to renew and extend its FALOC in the amount of $12,000,000 for two years. See Order Here
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for Approval of Refinancing a CoBank ACB Balloon Maturity Note
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. requests approval to refinance an expiring balloon maturity obligation through CoBank, ACB (CoBank). The Commission authorizes Pennichuck East Utility to borrow up to $1,025,000 through a new 10-year loan.
See Order Here
Pittsfield Aqueduct Company – Petition for Waiver and Increase to Short-Term Debt Limit
In this order, the Commission grants a petition filed by Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. (PAC, or the Company) on November 3, 2022, for a waiver pursuant to N.H. Admin. Rule Puc 201.05 of the limit on short-term debt established on Puc 608.05 and a temporary increase of that limit from 10 percent to 18 percent of the Company’s net fixed plant until June 30, 2023. The Commission grants the requested waiver and authorizes the requested increase in the short-term debt limit until June 30, 2023. The petition and subsequent docket filings are posted on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/docketbk/2022/22-075.html.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Amendments to Special Contract with Pennichuck East Utility
The State of New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission approves retroactive amendments to a special contract for wholesale water supply between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. and Pennichuck East Utility, Inc.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Merrimack Village District
Commencement of adjudicative proceeding and notice of prehearing conference.
On December 16, 2022, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition requesting approval of a special contract for wholesale water supply between PWW and Merrimack village District (MVD) pursuant to RSA 378:18. In support of its petition, PWW filed the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer, and related attachments, including a copy of the proposed contract and a statement of special circumstances. It also filed the direct testimony of MVD Superintendent Ronald Miner, Jr. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-085.html
See Petition Here
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for 2022 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge – Order Nisi Approving Settlement
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU, or the Company) to implement a 2022 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) in the amount of 0.94 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2021, effective October 18, 2022.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Town of Milford
In this order, the Commission approves a new special contract reached between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc and the Town of Milford for the back-up wholesale supply of water from Pennichuck Water Works to the town.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Amendments to Special Contract with Pennichuck East Utility
The State of New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission approves retroactive amendments to a special contract for wholesale water supply between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. and Pennichuck East Utility, Inc.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Merrimack Village District
Commencement of adjudicative proceeding and notice of prehearing conference.
On December 16, 2022, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition requesting approval of a special contract for wholesale water supply between PWW and Merrimack village District (MVD) pursuant to RSA 378:18. In support of its petition, PWW filed the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer, and related attachments, including a copy of the proposed contract and a statement of special circumstances. It also filed the direct testimony of MVD Superintendent Ronald Miner, Jr. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-085.html
See Petition Here
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for 2022 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge – Order Nisi Approving Settlement
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU, or the Company) to implement a 2022 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) in the amount of 0.94 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2021, effective October 18, 2022.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Town of Milford
Commencement of adjudicative proceeding and notice of prehearing conference
On October 21, 2022, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PPW) filed a petition requesting approval of a new special contract for wholesale water supply between PWW and the Town of Milford (Milford or the Town) pursuant to RSA 378:18. In support of its petition, PWW files the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer, and related attachments, including a copy of the proposed contract and a statement of special circumstances. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-070.html.
1/20/2023 Update – In this order, the Commission approves a new special contract reached between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc and the Town of Milford for the back-up wholesale supply of water from Pennichuck Water Works to the town.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Town of Hudson
Commencement of adjudicative proceeding and notice of prehearing conference.
On April 27, 2022, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition requesting the Commission to authorize the termination of its existing special contract with the Town of Hudson (Hudson) and to approve a new wholesale water supply contract with Hudson pursuant to RSA 378:18. In support of its petition, PWW filed the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer, and related attachments, a statement of special circumstances, and a copy of the proposed contract. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the commission, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/docketbk/2022/22-029.html.
See Petition Here
See Hearing Guidelines Here
1/17/2023 Update – In this order, the Commission approves a new special contract reached between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. and the Town of Hudson for the wholesale supply of water from Pennichuck Water Works to Hudson on a year-round basis.
Pennichuck East Utilty – Customer Notice regarding pending QCPAC Petition filing
Pennichuck will be filing a petition with the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission on or before February 15, 2023 seeking approval of an adjustment to its Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge as well as presenting Pennichuck’s planned 2023 through 2025 Capital Improvements plan. For more information please see our Current QCPAC Bill Insert.
Pennichuck Water Works – Customer Notice regarding pending QCPAC Petition filing
Pennichuck will be filing a petition with the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission on or before February 15, 2023 seeking approval of an adjustment to its Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge as well as presenting Pennichuck’s planned 2023 through 2025 Capital Improvements plan. For more information please see our Current QCPAC Bill Insert.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Anheuser-Busch
Order Nisi Accepting Reconciliation of Special Contract Rates
In this order nisi, the commission accepts the reconciliation of the difference in rates approved and charged under the Fourth Special Contract and the Fifth Special Contract between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) and Anheuser-Busch, LLC (AB).
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Anheuser-Busch,LLC
In this order the Commission approves a settlement agreement (Settlement) reached between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW or the “Company”) and the NH Department of Energy (DOE), with the assent of Anheuser-Busch, LLC (AB), authorizing a fifth special contract (Fifth Contract) between PWW and AB, as amended in the Settlement.
PWW’s initial petition requesting approval of a new special contract with AB was filed in this proceeding on June 4, 2021. The initial petition and all subsequent filings in this docket, including the Settlement and Fifth Contract approved herein, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2021/21-115.html
See Order Here
11/18/2022 Update
Order Nisi Accepting Reconciliation of Special Contract Rates
In this order nisi, the commission accepts the reconciliation of the difference in rates approved and charged under the Fourth Special Contract and the Fifth Special Contract between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) and Anheuser-Busch, LLC (AB).
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Town of Milford
Commencement of adjudicative proceeding and notice of prehearing conference
On October 21, 2022, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PPW) filed a petition requesting approval of a new special contract for wholesale water supply between PWW and the Town of Milford (Milford or the Town) pursuant to RSA 378:18. In support of its petition, PWW files the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer, and related attachments, including a copy of the proposed contract and a statement of special circumstances. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-070.html.
See Notice Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for 2022 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW, or the Company) to implement a 2022 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) in the amount of 1.80 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2021, effective April 26, 2022. Billing of this charge will begin on the effective date of this order nisi. The 2022 QCPAC surcharge will increase the average residential customer’s monthly bill by $1.00 per month. The Commission also approves recovery of a monthly QCPAC recoupment surcharge of $2.05 per month, subject to a final calculation submitted within 30 days of this order, for service rendered as of April 26, 2022, until the date of this order approving the 2022 QCPAC, to be applied over the course of three months.
The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested or, and granted by, the Commission, are posted on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-006.html.
See Order Here
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Financing for the Hill and Twin Ridge Projects in Plaistow
In this order, the Commission approves a petition of Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW, or the Company) to borrow from the New Hampshire Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) principal loan amounts totaling $540,000 for the Sweet Hill Community Water System Project (Sweet Hill Project) and the Twin Ridge Community Water System Project (Twin Ridge Project) in Plaistow. The projects will provide infrastructure upgrades and interconnections for the Sweet Hill and Twin Ridge community water systems.
The Petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-033.html
See Order Here
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for Approval of Amendment to Special Contract
On June 28, 2022, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition requesting that the Commission approve an amendment to its existing special contract with Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU) pursuant to RSA 378:18. In support of its petition, PWW filed the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer, related attachments, a statement of special circumstances, a copy of the existing contract, and a copy of the proposed amendments. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-040.html.
See petition here.
See hearing guidelines here.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Modification of Accounting Treatment of Leases
Order Nisi Denying Withdrawal, Suspending Hearing, and Requesting Filings
On November 12, 2021, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW, or the Company) filed a petition requesting approval to modify its accounting treatment of utility leases. Specifically, PWW requested approval to account for capital and operating leases on a “cash requirement basis” rather than the accrual methodology required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and applied pursuant to recently revised FASB standards ASC 840 and ASC 842, which now supersedes ASC 840 for
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021.
See filing here.
The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted to the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2021/21-137.html.
UPDATED HEARING DATE: Order Suspending Proposed Tariffs, Commencing an Adjudicative Proceeding, and Scheduling a Prehearing Conference
UPDATED HEARING DATE: On July 28, 2022, PWW filed a motion to reschedule the prehearing conference and technical session, as well as to extend the August 8 and August 12 deadlines. PWW’s motion to reschedule the August 24 prehearing conference and technical session is GRANTED, and the prehearing conference and technical session are rescheduled to Wednesday, September 7, 2022, at 1:30 p.m. See motion to reschedule here.
See hearing guidelines here.
This order suspends for 12 months the proposed tariffs filed on June 27, 2022 by Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW or the Company) for temporary and permanent rate increases, pending further investigation. The order also commences an adjudicative proceeding and schedules a prehearing conference on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, at 9:00 a.m (later rescheduled to Wednesday, September 7, 2022 – see above).
See hearing guidelines here.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Proposed 2022 QCPAC
PWW’s motion to reschedule the June 3 prehearing conference is GRANTED, and the prehearing conference has been rescheduled to Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at 1:30 p.m. Three hours have been allotted for the prehearing conference, during which the Commission will address the NHDOE’s motion for approval of procedural schedule filed on April 12, 2022.
See petition for approval here.
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for Approval of Proposed 2022 Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge
On February 10,2022, Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU or the Company) filed a petition requesting the Commission to approve a Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) to recover the costs of capital improvements made to the Company’s infrastructure in 2021. In support of its petition, PEU filed the direct testimony and attachments of Donald L. Ware, PEU Chief Operating Officer, the direct testimony of John J. Boisvert, Chief Engineer of Pennichuck Water Works, inc., and other attachments, including PEU’s notice to customers of its 2022 QCPAC filing. The initial filing and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-005/html
See hearing guidelines here.
UPDATE
Procedural Order Re: Motion to Reschedule Prehearing Conference
On April 8, 2022, Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU or the Company) filed a motion to reschedule the prehearing conference scheduled in the above-captioned matter on May 19, 2022. PEU’s motion to reschedule the May 19 prehearing conference is granted and has been scheduled for Tuesday, June 14, 2022, beginning at 9:00am. Three hours have been allotted for this prehearing conference.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Proposed 2022 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge
Commencement of Adjudicative Proceeding and Notice of Prehearing Conference
On February 14, 2022, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW or the Company) filed a petition requesting the Commission to approve a Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) to recover the costs of capital improvements made to the Company’s infrastructure in 2021. In support of its petition, PWW filed the direct testimony and attachments of Donald L. Ware, PWW Chief Operating Officer, and the direct testimony of John J. Boisvert, PWW Chief Engineer. The initial filing and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission website at www.puc.nh.gov/regulatory/Docketbk/2022/22-006.html
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for Approval of 2021 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge Order Granting Petition
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU, or the Company) to implement a 2021 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) in the amount of 4.02 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service on 2020, to be applied to the rates approved in Docket DW 20-156 by order No. 26,586 (February 18, 2022).
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Special Contract with Anheuser-Busch, LLC Order Nisi Approving Extension of Special Contract
In this order the Commission approves a further extension of the fourth special contract between Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW, or the Company) and Anheuser-Busch, LLC (AB) during the pendency of the Commission’s review of the parties’ proposed fifth special contract filed in this docket.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of 2021 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge Order Granting Petition
In this order, the Commission approves the request of Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) to implement a 2021 Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge (QCPAC) in the amount of 1.56 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2020. The QCPAC is approved effective April 2, 2021, with billing of this charge to begin on the effective date of this order.
Pennichuck Water Works – Motion to Modify Franchise
Order NISI No. 25,393 Order NISI Granting Petition to Expand Franchise
This order approves a petition of Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. to expand its existing franchise authority in Plaistow to include one additional lot located at 28 Walton Road. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are posted on the Commission’s website at www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2020/20-176.html.
PWW, PEU, and PAC Order Suspending Proposed Tariff Rates
Convening an Adjudicative Proceeding, and Providing Notice of a Prehearing Conference
This order suspends proposed tariffs for miscellaneous utility service fees filed by Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW), Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU), and Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. (PAC), pending further investigation. The Commission’s investigation will occur through an adjudicative proceeding. This order convenes the adjudicative proceeding and provides notice of a prehearing conference scheduled for March 30, 2022, at 9:00 a.m.
Please see Order DW 22-002 here.
Please see hearing guidelines here.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approved Modification of Accounting Treatment of Leases
Order Nisi Denying Withdrawal, Suspending Hearing, and Request Filings
On November 12, 2021, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. filed a petition, with supporting testimony and exhibits, requesting an Approved Modification of Accounting Treatment of Leases. Specifically, PWW’s petition requested Commission approval to account for the Company’s lease obligations on a “cash requirement basis” rather than the accrual methodology required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) to be applied pursuant to standard ASC 840 and updated FASB standard ASC 842. On December 7, 2021 PWW filed a proposed procedural schedule, developed in conjunction with the NH Department of Energy (Department) in this matter, requesting that the Commission postpone a decision on the petition until January 31, 2022. Based on the Company’s filings, on December 21, 2021, the Commission issued a procedural order scheduling a hearing on the matter for January 21, 2022.
Pennichuck East Utility – Petition for Approval of Proposed 2021 QCPAC
On December 30, 2021, Pennichuck East Utility, Inc., with the assent of the New Hampshire Department of Energy, filed a request for the Commission to approve the following procedural schedule, in accordance with the procedural order dated December 3, 2021:
File Settlement Agreement February 28, 2022
Final Hearing March 15, 2022
The February 28, 2022 deadline for filing a settlement agreement is approved. The March 15, 2022 hearing date, however, is not available on the Commission’s hearings calendar. Instead, a final hearing is scheduled on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, at 9:00 a.m.
See Petition DW 21-022 here (PDF)
See Proposed Procedural Schedule here (PDF)
See Hearing Guidelines here (PDF)
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Proposed 2021 QCPAC
On December 30, 2021, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc., with the assent of the New Hampshire Department of Energy, filed a request for the Commission to approve the following procedural order dated December 3, 2021:
File Settlement Agreement January 28, 2022
Final Hearing February 28, 2022, at 9:00 a.m.
The January 28, 2022 deadline for filing a settlement agreement is approved. The February 28, 2022 hearing date, however, is not available on the Commission’s hearings calendar. Instead, a final hearing is scheduled on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, at 9:00 a.m.
See Petition DW 21-023 here (PDF)
See Proposed Procedural Schedule here (PDF)
See Hearing Guidelines here (PDF)
Pennichuck Water Works – Order Nisi Approving 2020 Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge
In this order, the Commission approves an initial Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge in the amount of 3.9 percent of base revenue for capital projects placed in service in 2019, effective April 23, 2020, with billing of this charge to begin on the effective date of this order nisi.
Pennichuck Water Works – Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge
November 17, 2021 Update – As part of the ongoing annual QCPAC process, Pennichuck will be filing a proposed three-year capital expenditure plan for 2022-2024 QCPs with the PUC on or before February 15, 2022. For more information, see QCPAC Customer Notice here(PDF).
June 3, 2021 Update – Supplemental Order of Notice – Petition for Approval of Proposed Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge – Prehearing Conference to be held via web-enabled remote session on July 14, 2021 at 3:00 pm. For more information see Order of Notice here(PDF).
June 30, 2021 Update – On June 3, 2021, the Commission issued a Supplemental Order of Notice scheduling a web-enabled remote prehearing conference on July 14, regarding Pennichuck Water Works, Inc.’s petition for approval of a 2021 Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge (QCPAC), that if approved, would be included in PEU customer bills. This supplemental order of notice(PDF) updates the previous notice due to the expiration of the declared State of Emergency on June 11, 2021.
Pennichuck East Utility – Qualified Capital Project Adjustment Charge
November 17, 2021 Update – As a part of this ongoing annual QCPAC process, Pennichuck will be filing a proposed three-year capital expenditure plan for 2022-2024 QCPs with the PUC on or before February 15, 2022. For more information, see QCPAC Customer Notice here(PDF).
June 3, 2021 Update – Supplemental Order of Notice – Petition for Approval of Proposed Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge – Prehearing Conference to be held via web-enabled remote session on July 14, 2021 at 1:30 pm. For more information see Order of Notice here(PDF).
June 30, 2021 Update – On June 3, 2021, the Commission issued a Supplemental Order of Notice scheduling a web-enabled remote prehearing conference on July 14, regarding Pennichuck East Utility, Inc.’s petition for approval of a 2021 Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge (QCPAC), that if approved, would be included in PEU customer bills. This supplemental order of notice(PDF) updates the previous notice due to the expiration of the declared State of Emergency on June 11, 2021.
Pennichuck East Utility – 2020 QCPAC Order Nisi
In this order, the Commission grants in part and denies in part the Motion for Rehearing, Reconsideration or Modification of Order 26,525 filed by Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (“PEU”) on October 20, 2021.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Emergency Temporary Water Rate
On October 22, 2021, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition requesting the approval of a temporary emergency water rate. In support of its petition, PWW filed the direct testimony of Donald L. Ware, PWW’s Chief Operating Officer, and related attachments, as well as a proposed tariff. The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website at https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2021/21-134.html.
You may view the Petition for Approval of Emergency Temporary Water Rate here and the Hearing Guidlines here. The Commission will hold an expedited hearing in this matter at its offices located at 21 S. Fruit St., Suite 10, Concord, New Hampshire, on November 8, 2021 at 9:00am.
Pennichuck East Utility – Nisi Order Approving Financing 10/29/2021
In this order the Commission approves Pennichuck East Utility’s request to borrow the principal amount of $2,546,632 from CoBank for a 25 year term.
Pennichuck Water Works – Petition for Approval of Franchise Expansion
On December 23, 2020, Pennichuck Water Works, Inc. (PWW) filed a petition requesting approval to expand its Twin River franchise area in the Town of Plaistow (Plaistow) to include an additional residential lot. In support of its petition, PWW filed a number of attachments, some of which were previously filed in Docket No. DW 12-109.
The petition and subsequent docket filings, other than any information for which confidential treatment is requested of or granted by the Commission, are available on the Commission’s website here.
See the Commencement of Adjudicative Proceeding and Notice of Prehearing Conference here.
Pennichuck East Utility – Supplemental Order of Notice
On December 17, 2020, the Commission issued Order No. 26,436 suspending Pennichuck East Utility Inc.’s (PEU) proposed tariff for temporary and permanent rate increases pending further investigation. This supplemental notice(PDF) updates the previous notice due to the expiration of the declared State of Emergency on June 11, 2021.
See supplemental notice here(PDF), see letter regarding hearing time change here(PDF), and hearing guidelines here(PDF).
There was a time change for the public hearing. The public hearing will now be held on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 beginning at 9:00am and ending by 2:30pm.
UPDATE: Request for rate change hearing on December 15, 2021 will now be held in person at 9:00 a.m. at 21 s. Fruit Street, Suite 10 Concord NH. See the Supplemental Order Notice here.
Pennichuck East Utility – 2020 Amended Petition for QCPAC
Order NO. 26,525 (PDF) dismisses as moot the petition of Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (“Petitioner”) seeking a finding that Petitioner’s 2019 capital improvement projects are prudent, used and useful; and preliminary approval that its 2020 capital projects are eligible for the Qualified Capital Project Annual Adjustment Charge (“QCPAC”) mechanism. This order, furthermore, acknowledges receipt of Petitioner’s 2021 and 2022 Capital Project Expenditure Forecasts, which were submitted by Petitioner for informational purposes only. This order will not result in any additional charge to Petitioner’s customers.
Pennichuck East Utility – Town of Salem Petition
September 16th, 2021 Update: This order contains(PDF) the suspension of order No. 26,509, Commencement of Adjudicative Proceeding, and Notice of Hearing. The hearing scheduled for this order will be held on September 27, 2021 at 9:00am at the Commissions office at 21 S. Fruit St., Suite 10, Concord, New Hampshire. Members of the public who wish to access the hearing remotely can do so by visiting the Commissions website here(PDF). You may see the Hearing Guidelines here(PDF).
Previous Orders:
In this order(PDF), the Commission approves Pennichuck East Utility’s (PEU) transfer to the Town of Salem (Salem) of a portion of its franchise, together with certain PEU assets located in the Town of Windham (Windham), grants Salem’s request for permission to provide water service in that limited area of Windham, and grants Salem an exemption from public utility status and from Commission rate regulation for its proposed water service outside its municipal boundaries.
Pittsfield Aqueduct Company – Rate Schedule Filing
As of November 16, 2020, Pittsfield Aqueduct Company, Inc. (PAC) has filed rate schedules with the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (Commission) to increase its rates for all customer classes, including General Metered, Non-Metered, Municipal Fire Protection-Hydrants and private Fire Protection and Metered Service for the Town of Pittsfield Fire Department. PAC has sought a permanent increase of 11.18% for all rate classes. See our full Customer Notice here(PDF), and our Frequently Asked Questions about Rate Increases here(PDF). For the filing page on the Commission’s website, please visit https://www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2020/20-153.html
Supplemental Order of Notice issued August 12, 2021(PDF)
There is a time change to public hearing scheduled for August 18, 2021 from 10:00am to 1:00 pm.
Pennichuck East Utility – Rate Schedule Filing
Pennichuck East Utility, Inc. (PEU) has filed rate schedules with the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission to increase its rates for all customer classes, including General Metered, GM Non-Metered, Municipal Fire Protection – Hydrants, Private Fire Protection, and Public Hydrant service for Windham, Raymond, Lee, Exeter, Birch Hill, and Bow. Select the following links to view the customer notice that pertains to your district: Birch Hill(PDF), Locke Lake(PDF), Middleton(PDF), all other PEU Customers(PDF). View our Frequently Asked Questions About Rate Increases here(PDF). For the filing page on the Commission’s website, please visit: www.puc.nh.gov/Regulatory/Docketbk/2020/20-156.html. You may also view all of your notices at My Water System.
Pennichuck East Utility – Nisi Order Approving Financing
In this order(PDF) the Commission approves Pennichuck East Utility’s request to borrow the principal amount of $1,135,409 from CoBank for a 25 year term.
Pennichuck Water Works – Anheuser Busch special contract Petition
In this order(PDF) the Commission approves an extension of the Pennichuck Water Works, Inc.’s fourth special contract with Anheuser-Busch, LLC, during the pendency of the Commission’s review of the parties’ proposed, fifth special contract.