What Aquarion's Proposed Rate Hikes Could Mean For Darien Residents

DARIEN, CT — Aquarion Water Company filed an application with the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) this past summer to increase rates for customers.

Aquarion is proposing a revenue increase of $49.9 million, or 25.2 percent above current rates.

During the regularly scheduled Board of Selectmen meeting this week, Darien First Selectman Monica McNally explained what the rate hikes could mean for town residents.

"For the average Darien homeowner without an irrigation system or significantly heavier use in the summer, rates will rise approximately 9 percent," McNally said. "If you're a heavier user of water, especially if you have a robust irrigation system, you could see your prices increase 12 to 15 percent in those months."

McNally noted that the public will have an opportunity to submit testimony to PURA. A hearing will be held on the proposed hikes on Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. via Zoom.

The State of Connecticut Office of Consumer Counsel (OCC) encourages all Aquarion customers to participate and provide their perspective on the proposed rate increase, quality of service and other relevant topics.

Customers may also submit public comment in writing via email to Pura.ExecutiveSecretary@ct.gov referencing Docket No. 22-07-01.

All public comments, both live and in writing, will become an official part of the record and assist OCC, PURA and other stakeholders in reviewing Aquarion’s rate application.