Prince George County water bills could rise 18% under proposed settlement
Prince George County and Hopewell say a proposed SCC settlement would still raise average residential water bills about 18%, or about $9.47 a month, if approved.
Prince George County and the City of Hopewell say a proposed settlement in Virginia American Water’s rate case would still raise average residential bills about 18%, or about $9.47 a month, if the State Corporation Commission approves it.
The June 10 joint statement said the settlement would reduce the utility’s request for additional annualized water revenues from about $17.8 million to $14.2 million. The average increase applies to City and County residential customers, and households that use more water would likely feel a larger impact.
The case is still pending. Virginia American Water’s interim rates, based on the company’s earlier higher request, took effect May 1, 2026. If the SCC approves the settlement, customers could receive refund credits tied to the interim-rate period.
Prince George County and Hopewell said they intervened in the case on behalf of local ratepayers. The SCC docket is PUR-2025-00185, which covers Virginia American Water’s application for a general increase in rates.
For residents, the key point is that the deal would be smaller than the utility’s original filing, but it would still leave Prince George-area customers facing a higher bill unless the commission changes course.
