Canada’s EPCOR Commits to a Decade of Major Investments in Arizona’s Water Infrastructure

EPCOR, the Canadian utility company, has made significant strides in Arizona since its arrival in 2011. Initially drawn by the state’s complex water needs and ongoing droughts, EPCOR saw potential for growth.

Over the past 12 years, the company has invested more than $2.8 million into crucial infrastructure improvements. These upgrades encompass new wastewater facilities, expanded meter connections, and partnerships with several Valley cities. Their service area now stretches from the Loop 303 corridor in the West Valley to San Tan Valley.

Late last year, EPCOR relocated its U.S. headquarters to a 31,000-square-foot office in Glendale. Over the next decade, the company plans to invest an additional $1 billion to further enhance its operations.

Since entering Arizona, EPCOR has acquired several local water companies, including the Chaparral Water Company and Arizona American Water Company. Its reach now extends to vital areas, such as Buckeye and Sun City, with over 100,000 new meter connections established since 2012.

“This growth is a direct response to the population boom in the West Valley over the past dozen years,” said Shawn Bradford, Senior Vice President of Regulated US Water at EPCOR. “We have captured a large portion of that.”

In 2021, EPCOR acquired Johnson Utilities in San Tan Valley, addressing prior challenges with wastewater treatment. The company invested $259 million to improve the San Tan Water & Wastewater Districts. This included the construction of the Copper Basin Water Reclamation Facility, which has significantly enhanced wastewater capacity and removed restrictions on local home building.

“Once the plant became operational, we lifted the limitation and allowed San Tan to grow based on demand,” Bradford explained.

EPCOR is also working on developing a standpipe to serve residents in the Rio Verde Foothills. Furthermore, partnerships with nearby Queen Creek have facilitated collaborative efforts on wastewater treatment and infrastructure development.

Paul Gardner, water resource director for Queen Creek, highlighted the importance of these collaborations for mutual benefit. “By working together, we can save costs for customers in both communities,” he stated.

Despite facing ongoing challenges, particularly related to infrastructure upgrades and rising construction costs, EPCOR remains determined. Bradford expressed confidence in their capability to tackle Arizona’s water issues. “We are well-equipped to resolve complex water problems, especially in a region grappling with prolonged drought and rapid population growth,” he concluded.