Illinois American Water acquires Hardin County Water Company in Illinois, US

Water utility firm Illinois American Water has acquired Hardin County Water Company in southern Illinois, US, thereby adding 500 customers to its existing customer base of 1,000 residents.

The transaction received approval from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) in November this year. ICC had supervised the appraisal process for the local water company.

Illinois American Water president Karla Olson Teasley said: "We have a strong legacy and presence in Illinois.

"Illinois American Water has been delivering reliable water service to customers for more than 100 years.

"Through this acquisition and the Illinois Water Systems Viability Act, we will expand our existing footprint and help ensure local residents have access to a long-term, reliable water supply for years to come."

Illinois American Water will include Hardin County Water Company system in to its southern Illinois service area and has plans to charge customers less for their water usage.

Presently, a residential customer in the area uses around 4,500 to 6,000 gallons of water in a month.

Customers using 5,000 gallons of water from Hardin County Water Company pay around $70 per month, which can be reduced to around $42 under Illinois American Water’s single tariff pricing rate structure.