Essential Utilities, Inc. affirmed its long-term financial guidance while navigating regulatory approvals for its pending merger with American Water. The company reported second-quarter 2026 GAAP earnings of $0.37 per share, which included $0.01 in merger-related costs, resulting in non-GAAP earnings of $0.38 per share. Operating revenues rose 3% year over year to $530.9 million, driven by higher regulatory recoveries and purchased gas costs. Essential Utilities remains on track to invest a record $1.7 billion in infrastructure in 2026, with $662.2 million invested through the first six months. The board approved a 5.25% increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.3606 per share, extending an 80-year streak of consecutive payouts. Regulatory approvals for the merger have been secured in Kentucky, Ohio, and Virginia, with the Illinois process expected to conclude by November 2026, and the company continues to target a first-quarter 2027 closing.
Essential Utilities IncAffirmed 5-7% EPS growth guidance through 2027, raised dividend 5.25%, and reported Q2 earnings.
American Water WorksRegulatory approvals for merger with Essential Utilities progressing, with Illinois expected by November 2026.
