American Water Works, Essential Utilities Merger Wins Illinois Approval

04:47 PM EST, 11/06/2026 (MT Newswires) -- American Water Works (AWK) and Essential Utilities (WTRG) received approval from the Illinois Commerce Commission for their proposed merger, marking the fourth favorable regulatory action toward completing the transaction, the companies said Friday. The companies have also reached settlement agreements in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Texas and New Jersey, which remain subject to approval by respective utility commissions. The merger previously received regulatory approval in Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky. The all-stock transaction is expected to close by the end of Q1 2027, subject to remaining regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The combined company will operate under the American Water name.