Today, the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) made a bold statement by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), marking 130 years of delivering safe and reliable water and wastewater services. This milestone underscores the robust financial health and indispensable role of regulated, private water companies in driving innovation and infrastructure investments. The event showcased the sector’s commitment to addressing critical water and wastewater challenges, implementing cutting-edge technologies, and enhancing quality and sustainability.
The event highlighted the NAWC’s key initiatives, including the Safe, Reliable Water for All Program, which focuses on bringing safe, reliable water to underserved communities. This program is a testament to the industry’s proactive approach in improving health outcomes and ensuring reliable access for future generations. NAWC members are also at the forefront of sustainability, implementing practices that reduce energy consumption, enhance drought resilience, and promote water reuse and conservation.
The financial health of NAWC members is a cornerstone of their success. With over $5.5 billion invested annually in critical water infrastructure, these companies are addressing aging pipelines, reducing water loss, and modernizing treatment facilities to meet the highest water quality standards. This investment underscores their commitment to infrastructure modernization, environmental responsibility, workforce development, and innovation.
Rob Powelson, President and CEO of NAWC, emphasized the industry’s indispensable role in ensuring the health and well-being of communities. “The water industry plays an indispensable role in ensuring the health and well-being of communities through consistent, forward-looking investments,” he said. “Our members are helping solve the nation’s water infrastructure challenges, and we are proud to celebrate 130 years of delivering results for our members’ customers.”
The NAWC’s celebration of this historic milestone comes at a pivotal moment for the water sector. As communities grapple with aging infrastructure, climate change, and increasing demand for water, the role of regulated, private water companies becomes even more crucial. The NAWC’s focus on advancing new programs and policies that ensure access to clean water while driving innovation and delivering value to customers and investors is a call to action for the entire sector.
This event is a wake-up call for policymakers, investors, and the public to recognize the critical role of regulated, private water companies in shaping the future of water and wastewater management. As the NAWC continues to advocate for a permanent federal program to help low-income families with their water and wastewater bills, the sector’s commitment to environmental stewardship and public health is evident.
The NAWC’s celebration at the NYSE is more than just a milestone; it’s a declaration of intent. It signals a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. As the sector looks to the future, the NAWC’s leadership and the investments of its members will be instrumental in addressing the nation’s water infrastructure challenges. This event is a rallying cry for the sector to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, ensuring that safe, reliable water and wastewater services are accessible to all.
