Greenville Water increases rates for first time since 2016

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The Greenville Water system notified consumers of its first rate increase since 2016, citing several reasons — including inflation.

Greenville Water’s “inside the city limits” rates are changing from a $4.52 base fee and $1.47 per 1,000 gallons to $5.20 base and $1.68 per 1,000 gallons, while its “outside the city limits” rates are changing from a $6.78 base fee and $2.22 per 1,000 gallons to $7.46 base and $2.43 per 1,000 gallons.

Since the rate change is affecting both base fees and volume charges, the relative change will depend on each consumer’s water usage. For example, if a consumer uses 3,000 gallons, the change will total $1.31.

The rate change took effect as of Jan. 1 and will be reflected on February bill statements.

“Greenville Water considers water quality a top priority and will take all necessary measures to ensure the water quality remains up to standards put in place by the City of Greenville, SC DHEC, and the EPA,” according to Greenville Water.

There are many reasons that require a rate change, according to Greenville Water, including:

• To make infrastructure investments to perform maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement of aging infrastructure, all to improve the long-term viability of our water distribution system
• Keep pace with growth and ensure that the supply can meet the drinking water and fire protection demands of our growing service area
• To keep up with rising operational and maintenance costs due to inflation

According to Greenville Water, new developments could help offset the increased rates for existing customers.

Many new developments require new water infrastructure, such as new water mains and fire hydrants. As the developer installs the infrastructure, the developer installs the necessary water facilities to Greenville Water specifications and under its inspection. Upon completion, the developer donates the newly installed infrastructure to Greenville Water at no cost to ratepayers.

Additionally, Greenville Water collects capacity fees with every new service connection, such as a home and business, to its water system to help fund the construction or expansion of its facilities, such as treatment plants and major water infrastructure. The collection of capacity fees takes the burden off existing customers to fund these major system improvements and keep rates “low and affordable.”

Details regarding commercial account rate changes are coming soon.

There is a list of available agencies at www.greenvillewater.com, listed as “Financial Assistance,” and upon application and successful qualification, consumers may be eligible for financial assistance with their water and other bills.

For more information visit Greenville Water’s website.