Aqua America, a regulated water and wastewater utility, acquired Peoples, natural gas company, from SteelRiver Infrastructure Partners for $4.3bn, which includes $1.3bn of debt. “The acquisition of Peoples is a great strategic fit and aligns directly with our growth strategy and core competencies of building and rehabilitating infrastructure, timely regulatory recovery, and operational excellence. Both Aqua and Peoples place customers at the center of all we do. We care deeply for employees and their safety, have expertise in pipe replacement, and prioritize stewardship of the environment. Both companies have worked hard to earn credibility with regulators and respect of other stakeholders, and to employ advanced operational efficiencies, all of which create long-term value for customers, communities, employees and shareholders.” Christopher Franklin Aqua Chairman and CEO