American Water and Essential Utilities Shareholders Approve Merger

Shareholders of both companies overwhelmingly approve proposals related to the proposed merger.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE: AWK) and Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) announced that their respective shareholders have overwhelmingly approved the proposals related to their previously announced proposed merger. Approximately 99% of American Water's shares present at the meeting voted to approve the share issuance, and nearly 95% of Essential Utilities' shares voted were cast in support of the merger.

Why it matters

The merger is expected to create a larger, more diversified utility company that can better serve customers and communities. The strong shareholder support indicates confidence in the strategic rationale and potential benefits of the transaction.

The details

The merger is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2027, but remains subject to customary closing conditions, including clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act and required regulatory approvals, including from public utility commissions.

  • The special shareholder meetings were held earlier today, February 10, 2026.
  • The merger is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2027.

The players

American Water Works Company, Inc.

The largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, with a history dating back to 1886.

Essential Utilities, Inc.

A provider of safe, clean, reliable water, wastewater and natural gas services to approximately 5.5 million people across nine states.

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What’s next

The merger remains subject to customary closing conditions, including clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act and required regulatory approvals, including from public utility commissions.

The takeaway

The overwhelming shareholder approval of the merger proposals demonstrates the strategic rationale and potential benefits of combining these two leading utility companies to better serve customers and communities.