On July 31, 2025, Carolina Water Service of North Carolina (CWSNC) asked the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) for approval to increase its customers’ water and wastewater rates over three years, from April 2026 through April 2029. The rate filing also includes a proposal for a low-income discount program, which, if approved, will deliver a discount for qualifying residential customers. The rate change request is the first step in the regulatory process to change rates. Nothing is changing at this time.
The table below outlines the average increases the company is requesting as part of its three-year Water and Sewer Investment Plan (WSIP). It is important to note that some customers, including those in recently acquired systems or those who have been paying well below uniform rates, would see higher rate increases. It's also important to note that customers who are operating under our Emergency Operator agreements are not impacted by this rate request, as they fall under separate rate requirements.
How are rates determined?
Your monthly bill reflects the necessary cost to operate, maintain, and improve the essential water and wastewater systems that serve you.
We are regulated by the NCUC—a state agency that ensures utilities operate efficiently, comply with safety and environmental standards, and plan responsibly for the future. Proposed rate changes are submitted to the NCUC, go through a thorough public review process, including hearings and opportunities for customer input, and must be approved by regulators.
Why do we need a rate increase?
The proposed rate change will help support the company’s operations as we continue to provide customers with safe, reliable water and wastewater services. It will help fund ongoing capital investments to replace and rehabilitate aging infrastructure, comply with new environmental regulations, and increase efficiencies in the company’s systems. Examples of some of the major investments include:
- Installing water treatment systems in communities that don’t comply with new PFAS, lead and copper regulations.
- Significant ongoing repairs and rebuild of systems impacted by Hurricane Helene. In addition, we are asking to create a reserve fund for future storms.
- Installation of more than 13,000 digital meters to give customers more control and insight into water usage.
What happens next?
Over the next several months, the NCUC and Public Staff will consider the rate increase proposal, while they also review the company’s finances, operations, and performance. They will hold various hearings, including sessions where the public can weigh in. Watch your mailbox for a notice from the NCUC with details on where and when those public hearings will take place. Finally, the NCUC will decide on the proposed rate increase, and the company will begin implementing any approved changes. That means no rate changes are expected until Spring 2026.
To follow the process or submit comments, visit the NCUC Docket Portal: https://www.ncuc.gov/ and search for Docket W-354 Sub 450.
Supporting our customers – We continue to support customers and help manage costs by:
- Pursuing insurance dollars and federal/state funds to help pay for certain investments, offsetting the total cost to customers.
- The rate filing includes a proposal for a low-income discount program, which, if approved, would deliver a significant discount to qualifying customers.
- Expanding a rebate program that would allow sewer-only customers to participate, in return for their efforts to reduce water consumption and effluent flow.
- Educating customers on tools and programs to help manage water usage and bills.
We are dedicated to serving you with excellence, transparency, and environmental responsibility. We will continue to invest in the local water and wastewater systems and keep you informed every step of the way. Thank you for your trust and partnership.
Sincerely,
Don Denton
President, Carolina Water Service, Inc. of North Carolina