Petershausen utility forecasts first surplus in years after fee hikes
Petershausen Municipal Utility (EGP) expects a financial turnaround in 2026. Water and wastewater services are set to generate surpluses for the first time in years. The improvement follows a rise in fees introduced earlier this year.
The projected surplus comes from higher revenue in two key areas. Water supply is expected to bring in €110,000, while wastewater disposal should yield €250,700. These figures reflect the adjusted fees that took effect at the start of 2026.
The fee increase is not unique to Petershausen. Across Germany, similar municipalities have raised water and wastewater prices over the past five years. Rising operational costs and infrastructure investments have driven these changes. For example, Rosenfeld recently set its water consumption fee at 2.83 €/cbm for 2026–2028, accounting for higher depreciation and water taxes. By law, water and wastewater services must operate on a cost-based system. They are required to balance income and expenses over time. The new fees also address past shortfalls, covering deficits accumulated over the previous four years.
EGP's financial outlook for 2026 marks a shift from years of deficits. The surplus will help stabilise operations while meeting legal requirements for cost recovery. The changes align with broader trends in municipal utility pricing across Germany.
