AWWU files new tariff revisions with Alaska regulators, opening public comment on Anchorage water and sewer rates

Anchorage water and sewer customers are paying about $5.46 more per month in 2026 after the Anchorage Assembly approved rate increases under AO No. 2025-132 and AWWU filed tariff revisions with the Regulatory Commission of Alaska, opening a formal public comment process. The $5.46 monthly increase breaks down to $3.57 for water service and $1.89 for wastewater service. The current tariff notice covers filings TA184-122 and TA185-126, and the specific terms of those filings have not yet been separately summarized in public-facing materials.

Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility filed the two tariff advice letters with the RCA. The combined monthly bill for a typical single-family residential customer rose from $123.15 to $128.61. AWWU's rates page states: "Water Rates reflect a rate increase of 5.50% for all water customers and Wastewater Rates reflect a rate increase of 3.25% for all sewer customers." AWWU cited higher costs for labor, chemicals, utilities, and maintenance as the main drivers.

Beyond Household Bills

The increases reach beyond household bills. The utility states the changes will raise the Anchorage Fire Department's annual water costs by approximately $247,000, municipal departments overall by about $18,000, and the Anchorage School District by approximately $23,300 for water service.

The tariff filings also address Levy Upon Connection rates, the per-square-foot assessment charged when a new parcel connects to the system. The proposed 2025 water LUC rate is $1.13330 per square foot and the proposed sewer LUC rate is $2.46323 per square foot. The RCA may approve rates that differ from those proposed.

How to Comment

Public comments on the tariff filings are due by 5:00 p.m. on July 31. Comments must be filed with the RCA and a copy sent to AWWU at [email protected], referencing TA184-122 and TA185-126.