The Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) voted Wednesday morning to approve the sale of Aquarion Water Company to the South Central Regional Water Authority.

The controversial sale has gone back and forth with officials for months. PURA rejected it in November 2025 over rate concerns.

Attorney General William Tong has strongly opposed the deal.

The move will impact about 700,000 customers across 62 municipalities.

Critics noted that RWA does not need state approval for rate increases because it is a public utility. However, any rate increases do need approval from the utility’s board, which is made up of members from local communities.

"It promotes local control, creates local ownership, and fosters stability and continuity,” said PURA commissioner Holly Cheeseman, who voted to reject the merger in November. “The new authority will be governed by individuals from the communities it serves – not by a board of directors."

Eversource said it will issue a statement on the decision Wednesday.

RWA Chief Financial Officer Rochelle Kowalski released the following statement on behalf of Aquarion:

"PURA’s final decision reflects a careful review of the record and an unwavering focus on what is in the best interest of Aquarion customers. This approval allows the Aquarion Water Authority to move forward with the acquisition and transition to a locally governed, not-for-profit model focused on reliable service, accountability, and sustained investment in the system. We look forward to working with communities across the region to ensure a smooth transition and deliver lasting value for customers. We will take the necessary steps to ensure that Aquarion customers see the benefits of this agreement as soon as possible.”