NAWC Rings NYSE Bell to Celebrate 130 Years of Advancing Safe, Reliable Water, Wastewater Access

February 13, 2025

February 13, 2025 – New York, NY – Today, the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) to commemorate the 130th anniversary of the regulated, private water industry’s commitment to delivering safe and reliable water and wastewater service to millions of families across the United States. This milestone highlights the strong financial health and the essential role of regulated, private water companies in providing innovative solutions and infrastructure investments that work toward safe, reliable water and wastewater access for all.

For over a century, NAWC members have pioneered programs that address critical water and wastewater challenges, implementing state-of-the-art technologies to enhance quality and sustainability. These efforts have helped meet the growing demand for safe, reliable water while addressing the infrastructure needs of communities in both urban and rural areas.

In conjunction with the bell-ringing event, NAWC will be showcasing key programs that have improved water delivery systems and enhanced environmental stewardship across the nation. From advanced water treatment facilities to proactive lead pipe replacement programs, NAWC member companies are making long-term investments that drive measurable improvements in water quality and service reliability.

Key Initiatives in Focus:

Safe, Reliable Water for All Program

Through partnerships with communities across the nation, NAWC members are leading efforts to bring safer, reliable water to underserved communities, improving health outcomes and ensuring reliable access for future generations. Regulated, private water companies protect their communities by treating for “forever chemicals” prior to federal regulation and provide help for low-income customers while advocating for a permanent federal program to help low-income families with their water and wastewater bills.

Sustainability Leadership:

NAWC member companies are at the forefront of implementing sustainable practices, reducing energy consumption in water processing, and enhancing drought resilience through infrastructure replacement, water reuse and conservation programs.

Innovative Infrastructure Investments:

Regulated, private water companies are investing over $5.5 billion annually in critical water infrastructure, addressing aging pipelines, reducing water loss and modernizing treatment facilities to meet the highest water quality standards.

Strong Financial Health: NAWC members promote strong financial health for water and wastewater utilities to allow for necessary investments, underscoring their commitment to infrastructure modernization, environmental responsibility, workforce development and innovation.

“The water industry plays an indispensable role in ensuring the health and well-being of communities through consistent, forward-looking investments,” said Rob Powelson, President and CEO of NAWC. “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.”

As the NAWC commemorates this historic milestone, the association remains focused on advancing new programs and policies that ensure access to clean water while driving innovation and delivering value to customers and investors.

Video of the NYSE Opening Bell

NAWC NYSE listed members

Aqua America (WRTG)

Aquarion Water (ES)

California Water Service Group (CWT)

Golden State Water (AWR)

Liberty Utilities (AQN)

Middlesex Water (MSEX)

NW Natural (NWN)

SJW Group (SJW)

NAWC other members

Artesian Water

Baton Rouge Water

Beckley Water

BVRT

Central States Water Resources

Columbia Water

EPCOR USA

Gordon’s Corner Water

Global Water Resources

Hazardville Water

Newtown Artesian

Nexus Water Group

Peoples Water Service

Pluris Holdings

San Gabriel Valley Water

Sussex Shores Water

Veolia North America

Whitinsville Water

York Water