Essential Utilities (WTRG) 10-Q 3 Aug 18 2018 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jul. 24, 2018
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Trading Symbol	wtr
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Entity Registrant Name	AQUA AMERICA INC
Entity Central Index Key	78,128
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		177,913,909

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Assets
Property, plant and equipment, at cost	$ 7,191,574	$ 7,003,993
Less: accumulated depreciation	1,649,601	1,604,133
Net property, plant and equipment	5,541,973	5,399,860
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	52,948	4,204
Accounts receivable and unbilled revenues, net	103,931	98,596
Inventory, materials and supplies	16,046	14,361
Prepayments and other current assets	14,891	12,542
Assets held for sale	1,558	1,543
Total current assets	189,374	131,246
Regulatory assets	750,826	713,971
Deferred charges and other assets, net	38,648	38,485
Investment in joint venture	7,474	6,671
Goodwill	42,050	42,230
Total assets	6,570,345	6,332,463
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock at $.50 par value, authorized 300,000,000 shares, issued 180,971,159 and 180,700,251 as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017	90,486	90,350
Capital in excess of par value	811,763	807,135
Retained earnings	1,177,874	1,132,556
Treasury stock, at cost, 3,058,248 and 2,986,308 shares as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017	(75,771)	(73,280)
Accumulated other comprehensive income		860
Total stockholders' equity	2,004,352	1,957,621
Long-term debt, excluding current portion	2,202,363	2,029,358
Less: debt issuance costs	21,002	21,605
Long-term debt, excluding current portion, net of debt issuance costs	2,181,361	2,007,753
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 14)
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	118,540	113,769
Loans payable		3,650
Accounts payable	42,450	59,165
Book overdraft	15,567	21,629
Accrued interest	22,283	21,359
Accrued taxes	17,373	23,764
Other accrued liabilities	37,769	41,152
Total current liabilities	253,982	284,488
Deferred credits and other liabilities:
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits	808,711	769,073
Customers' advances for construction	93,342	93,186
Regulatory liabilities	542,525	541,910
Other	104,325	107,341
Total deferred credits and other liabilities	1,548,903	1,511,510
Contributions in aid of construction	581,747	571,091
Total liabilities and equity	$ 6,570,345	$ 6,332,463

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.50	$ 0.50
Common stock, shares authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	180,971,159	180,700,251
Treasury stock, shares	3,058,248	2,986,308

Consolidated Statements Of Net

Consolidated Statements Of Net Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Consolidated Statements Of Net Income [Abstract]
Operating revenues	$ 211,860	$ 203,418	$ 406,207	$ 391,205
Operating expenses:
Operations and maintenance	73,515	69,615	147,461	137,505
Depreciation	36,613	33,407	72,580	67,244
Amortization	149	127	279	316
Taxes other than income taxes	14,829	14,419	29,796	29,156
Total operating expenses	125,106	117,568	250,116	234,221
Operating income	86,754	85,850	156,091	156,984
Other expense (income):
Interest expense, net	23,723	21,387	47,194	42,713
Allowance for funds used during construction	(2,577)	(3,463)	(5,444)	(6,656)
Gain on sale of other assets	(141)	(10)	(337)	(279)
Equity (earnings) loss in joint venture	(911)	161	(1,293)	191
Other	437	1,238	1,040	2,476
Income before income taxes	66,223	66,537	114,931	118,539
Provision for income tax (benefit) expense	(367)	5,569	(2,498)	8,499
Net income	$ 66,590	$ 60,968	$ 117,429	$ 110,040
Net income per common share:
Basic	$ 0.37	$ 0.34	$ 0.66	$ 0.62
Diluted	$ 0.37	$ 0.34	$ 0.66	$ 0.62
Average common shares outstanding during the period:
Basic	177,901,000	177,609,000	177,852,000	177,545,000
Diluted	178,273,000	178,045,000	178,299,000	178,042,000
Cash dividends declared per common share	$ 0.2047	$ 0.1913	$ 0.4094	$ 0.3826

Consolidated Statements Of Comp

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 66,590	$ 60,968	$ 117,429	$ 110,040
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Unrealized holding gain on investments, net of tax expense of $20 for the three months, and $51 for the six months ended June 30, 2017, respectively		37		95
Comprehensive income	$ 66,590	$ 61,005	$ 117,429	$ 110,135

Consolidated Statements Of Com6

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017
Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Income taxes arising from net unrealized holding gain on investments	$ 20	$ 51

Consolidated Statements Of Capi

Consolidated Statements Of Capitalization - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $.50 par value	$ 90,486	$ 90,350
Capital in excess of par value	811,763	807,135
Retained earnings	1,177,874	1,132,556
Treasury stock, at cost	(75,771)	(73,280)
Accumulated other comprehensive income		860
Total stockholders' equity	2,004,352	1,957,621
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	1,553,676	1,462,900
Total long-term debt	2,320,903	2,143,127
Current portion of long-term debt	118,540	113,769
Long-term debt, excluding current portion	2,202,363	2,029,358
Less: debt issuance costs	21,002	21,605
Long-term debt, excluding current portion, net of debt issuance costs	2,181,361	2,007,753
Total capitalization	4,185,713	3,965,374
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 0.00% To 0.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	3,876	4,196
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 1.00% To 1.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	12,343	12,914
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 2.00% To 2.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	18,377	19,254
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 3.00% To 3.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	498,841	475,232
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 4.00% To 4.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	706,431	631,599
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 5.00% To 5.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	205,311	205,578
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 6.00% To 6.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	44,000	44,000
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 7.00% To 7.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	31,955	32,335
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 8.00% To 8.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	5,842	6,092
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 9.00% To 9.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	20,700	25,700
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 10.00% To 10.99% [Member]
Long-term debt:
Long-term debt of subsidiaries	6,000	6,000
Revolving Credit Agreement, Due 2021 [Member]
Long-term debt:
Notes payable to bank under revolving credit agreement, variable rate, due 2021	157,000	60,000
Bank notes at 2.48% and 3.5% due 2019 and 2020 [Member]
Long-term debt:
Unsecured notes payable	100,000	100,000
Notes at 3.01% and 3.59% due 2027 and 2041 [Member]
Long-term debt:
Unsecured notes payable	245,000	245,000
Notes Ranging From 4.62% To 4.87%, due 2018 through 2024 [Member]
Long-term debt:
Unsecured notes payable	122,800	122,800
Notes Ranging From 5.20% To 5.95%, due 2018 through 2037 [Member]
Long-term debt:
Unsecured notes payable	$ 142,427	$ 152,427

Consolidated Statements Of Cap8

Consolidated Statements Of Capitalization (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Common stock, par value	$ 0.50	$ 0.50
Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 10.00% To 10.99% [Member]
Maturity date	2,018	2,018
Revolving Credit Agreement, Due 2021 [Member]
Maturity date	2,021	2,021
Bank notes at 2.48% due 2019 [Member]
Interest rate	2.48%	2.48%
Maturity date	2,019	2,019
Bank notes at 3.5% due 2020 [Member]
Interest rate	3.50%	3.50%
Maturity date	2,020	2,020
Notes at 3.01% due 2027 [Member]
Interest rate	3.01%	3.01%
Maturity date	2,027	2,027
Notes at 3.59% due 2041 [Member]
Interest rate	3.59%	3.59%
Maturity date	2,041	2,041
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 0.00% To 0.99% [Member]
Interest rate	0.00%	0.00%
Maturity date	2,023	2,023
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 1.00% To 1.99% [Member]
Interest rate	1.00%	1.00%
Maturity date	2,019	2,019
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 2.00% To 2.99% [Member]
Interest rate	2.00%	2.00%
Maturity date	2,019	2,019
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 3.00% To 3.99% [Member]
Interest rate	3.00%	3.00%
Maturity date	2,019	2,019
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 4.00% To 4.99% [Member]
Interest rate	4.00%	4.00%
Maturity date	2,020	2,020
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 5.00% To 5.99% [Member]
Interest rate	5.00%	5.00%
Maturity date	2,019	2,019
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 6.00% To 6.99% [Member]
Interest rate	6.00%	6.00%
Maturity date	2,018	2,018
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 7.00% To 7.99% [Member]
Interest rate	7.00%	7.00%
Maturity date	2,022	2,022
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 8.00% To 8.99% [Member]
Interest rate	8.00%	8.00%
Maturity date	2,021	2,021
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 9.00% To 9.99% [Member]
Interest rate	9.00%	9.00%
Maturity date	2,018	2,018
Minimum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 10.00% To 10.99% [Member]
Interest rate	10.00%	10.00%
Minimum [Member] | Notes Ranging From 4.62% To 4.87%, due 2018 through 2024 [Member]
Interest rate	4.62%	4.62%
Maturity date	2,018	2,018
Minimum [Member] | Notes Ranging From 5.20% To 5.95%, due 2018 through 2037 [Member]
Interest rate	5.20%	5.20%
Maturity date	2,018	2,018
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 0.00% To 0.99% [Member]
Interest rate	0.99%	0.99%
Maturity date	2,033	2,033
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 1.00% To 1.99% [Member]
Interest rate	1.99%	1.99%
Maturity date	2,035	2,035
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 2.00% To 2.99% [Member]
Interest rate	2.99%	2.99%
Maturity date	2,033	2,033
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 3.00% To 3.99% [Member]
Interest rate	3.99%	3.99%
Maturity date	2,056	2,056
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 4.00% To 4.99% [Member]
Interest rate	4.99%	4.99%
Maturity date	2,057	2,057
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 5.00% To 5.99% [Member]
Interest rate	5.99%	5.99%
Maturity date	2,043	2,043
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 6.00% To 6.99% [Member]
Interest rate	6.99%	6.99%
Maturity date	2,036	2,036
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 7.00% To 7.99% [Member]
Interest rate	7.99%	7.99%
Maturity date	2,027	2,027
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 8.00% To 8.99% [Member]
Interest rate	8.99%	8.99%
Maturity date	2,025	2,025
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 9.00% To 9.99% [Member]
Interest rate	9.99%	9.99%
Maturity date	2,026	2,026
Maximum [Member] | Long-Term Debt Of Subsidiaries 10.00% To 10.99% [Member]
Interest rate	10.99%	10.99%
Maximum [Member] | Notes Ranging From 4.62% To 4.87%, due 2018 through 2024 [Member]
Interest rate	4.87%	4.87%
Maturity date	2,024	2,024
Maximum [Member] | Notes Ranging From 5.20% To 5.95%, due 2018 through 2037 [Member]
Interest rate	5.95%	5.95%
Maturity date	2,037	2,037

Consolidated Statement Of Equit

Consolidated Statement Of Equity - 6 months ended Jun. 30, 2018 - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Stock [Member]	Capital In Excess Of Par Value [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	Total
Balance at Dec. 31, 2017	$ 90,350	$ 807,135	$ 1,132,556	$ (73,280)	$ 860	$ 1,957,621
Net income			117,429			117,429
Dividends			(72,802)			(72,802)
Issuance of common stock under dividend reinvestment plan (22,170 shares)	11	709				720
Repurchase of stock (71,940 shares)				(2,491)		(2,491)
Equity compensation plan (185,639 shares)	93	(93)
Exercise of stock options (63,099 shares)	32	987				1,019
Stock-based compensation		3,428	(169)			3,259
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - financial instruments			860		$ (860)
Other		(403)				(403)
Balance at Jun. 30, 2018	$ 90,486	$ 811,763	$ 1,177,874	$ (75,771)		$ 2,004,352

Consolidated Statement Of Equ10

Consolidated Statement Of Equity (Parenthetical)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018shares
Consolidated Statement Of Equity (Parenthetical) [Abstract]
Issuance of common stock under dividend reinvestment plan, shares	22,170
Repurchase of stock, shares	71,940
Equity compensation plan, shares	185,639
Exercise of stock options, shares	63,099

Consolidated Statements Of Cash

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flow - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 117,429	$ 110,040
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	72,859	67,560
Deferred income taxes	(4,602)	6,299
Provision for doubtful accounts	2,213	2,052
Stock-based compensation	3,432	2,810
Loss on sale of market-based business unit		324
Gain on sale of other assets	(337)	(279)
Net change in receivables, inventory and prepayments	(11,110)	(7,417)
Net change in payables, accrued interest, accrued taxes and other accrued liabilities	(6,165)	(10,969)
Pension and other postretirement benefits contributions	(8,692)	(15,421)
Other	4,658	2,262
Net cash flows from operating activities	169,685	157,261
Cash flows from investing activities:
Property, plant and equipment additions, including the debt component of allowance for funds used during construction of $1,613 and $1,543	(216,614)	(208,472)
Acquisitions of utility systems and other, net	(190)	(5,765)
Net proceeds from the sale of market-based business unit and other assets	398	1,102
Other	(152)	(144)
Net cash flows used in investing activities	(216,558)	(213,279)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Customers' advances and contributions in aid of construction	4,068	3,629
Repayments of customers' advances	(1,818)	(1,774)
Net (repayments) proceeds of short-term debt	(3,650)	60,921
Proceeds from long-term debt	218,037	222,780
Repayments of long-term debt	(41,001)	(145,499)
Change in cash overdraft position	(6,062)	(12,616)
Proceeds from issuing common stock	720	715
Proceeds from exercised stock options	1,019	2,327
Repurchase of common stock	(2,491)	(2,093)
Dividends paid on common stock	(72,802)	(67,920)
Other	(403)	(404)
Net cash flows from financing activities	95,617	60,066
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	48,744	4,048
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	4,204	3,763
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	52,948	7,811
Non-cash investing activities:
Property, plant and equipment additions purchased at the period end, but not yet paid for	26,010	32,770
Non-cash customer advances and contributions in aid of construction	$ 10,468	$ 11,488

Consolidated Statements Of Ca12

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flow (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flow [Abstract]
Debt component of allowance for funds used during construction	$ 1,613	$ 1,543

Basis Of Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Basis Of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis Of Presentation	Note 1 – Basis of Presentation  The accompanying consolidated balance sheets and statements of capitalization of Aqua America, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) at June 30, 2018, the consolidated statements of net income and comprehensive income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 the consolidated statements of cash flow for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 , and the consolidated statement of equity for the six months ended June 30, 2018 are unaudited, but reflect all adjustments, consisting of only normal recurring accruals, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present a fair statement of its consolidated financial position, consolidated changes in equity, consolidated results of operations, and consolidated cash flow for the periods presented. Because they cover interim periods, the statements and related notes to the financial statements do not include all disclosures and notes normally provided in annual financial statements and, therefore, should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 . The results of operations for interim periods may not be indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. The December 31, 2017 consolidated balance sheet data presented herein was derived from the Company’s December 31, 2017 audited consolidated financial statements, but does not include all disclosures and notes normally provided in annual financial statements. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation in the consolidated statements of net income as a result of the adoption, in the first quarter of 2018, of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) accounting guidance on the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost (refer to Note 16 – Recent Accounting Pronouncements ).  The preparation of financial statements often requires the selection of specific accounting methods and policies. Further, significant estimates and judgments may be required in selecting and applying those methods and policies in the recognition of the assets and liabilities in its consolidated balance sheets, the revenues and expenses in its consolidated statements of net income, and the information that is contained in its summary of significant accounting policies and notes to consolidated financial statements. Making these estimates and judgments requires the analysis of information concerning events that may not yet be complete and of facts and circumstances that may change over time. Accordingly, actual amounts or future results can differ materially from those estimates that the Company includes currently in its consolidated financial statements, summary of significant accounting policies, and notes.  There have been no changes to the summary of significant accounting policies, other than as described in Note 2 – Revenue Recognition as a result of the adoption of a new accounting pronouncement adopted on January 1, 2018, previously identified in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Revenue Recognition [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition	Note 2 – Revenue Recognition  The Company recognizes revenue as water and wastewater services are provided to our customers, which happens over time as the service is delivered and the performance obligation is satisfied. The Company’s utility revenues recognized in an accounting period include amounts billed to customers on a cycle basis and unbilled amounts based on estimated usage from the last billing to the end of the accounting period. Unbilled amounts are calculated by deriving estimates based on average usage of the prior month. The Company’s actual results could differ from these estimates, which would result in operating revenues being adjusted in the period that the revision to our estimates is determined. Unbilled amounts are included in accounts receivable and unbilled revenues, net on the consolidated balance sheet.  Generally, payment is due within 30 days once a bill is issued to a customer. Sales tax and other taxes we collect on behalf of government authorities, concurrent with our revenue-producing activities, are primarily excluded from revenue. The Company has determined that its revenue recognition is not materially different under the FASB’s new accounting standard for revenue from contracts with customer, and has not made any changes to our accounting policy. The Company’s revenues are being reported identical in the consolidated statements of net income to how they were reported under the FASB’s former accounting standard for revenue recognition. The following table presents our revenues disaggregated by major source and customer class:     Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30,2018 June 30,2018  Water Revenues Wastewater Revenues Other Revenues Water Revenues Wastewater Revenues Other Revenues  Regulated:  Residential $ 122,530 $ 17,583 $ - $ 236,367 $ 35,115 $ -  Commercial 33,456 2,975 - 63,798 5,863 -  Fire protection 7,970 - - 15,908 - -  Industrial 7,309 498 - 13,669 961 -  Other water 14,220 - - 25,241 - -  Other wastewater - 1,920 - - 2,711 -  Alternative revenue program (120) 164 - (120) 164 -  Other utility - - 2,319 - - 4,654  Regulated segment total 185,365 23,140 2,319 354,863 44,814 4,654  Other and eliminations - - 1,036 - - 1,876  Consolidated $ 185,365 $ 23,140 $ 3,355 $ 354,863 $ 44,814 $ 6,530   Regulated Segment Revenues – These revenues are composed of three main categories: water, wastewater, and other. Water revenues represent revenues earned for supplying customers with water service. Wastewater revenues represent revenues earned for treating wastewater and releasing it into the water supply. Other revenues are associated fees that relate to the regulated business but are not water and wastewater revenues. See description below for a discussion on the performance obligation for each of these revenue streams.  Tariff Revenues – These revenues are categorized by customer class: residential, commercial, fire protection, industrial, and other water and other wastewater. The rates that generate these revenues are approved by the respective state utility commission, and revenues are billed cyclically and accrued for when unbilled. Other water and other wastewater revenues consist primarily of fines, penalties, surcharges, and availability lot fees. Our performance obligation for tariff revenues is to provide potable water or wastewater treatment service to customers. This performance obligation is satisfied over time as the services are rendered.  Alternative Revenue Program – These revenues represent the difference between the actual billed utility water and wastewater revenues for Aqua Illinois and the revenues set in the last Aqua Illinois rate case. We recognize revenues based on the target amount established in the last rate case, and then record either a regulatory asset or liability based on the cumulative difference between the target and actual, which results in either a refund due to customers or a payment from customers. This revenue program represents a contract between the utility and its regulators, not customers, and therefore is not within the scope of the FASB’s accounting guidance for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers.  Other Utility Revenues – Other utility revenues represent revenues earned primarily from: antenna revenues, which represent fees received from telecommunication operators that have put cellular antennas on our water towers, operation and maintenance and billing contracts, which represent fees earned from municipalities for our operation of their water or wastewater treatment services or performing billing services, and fees earned from developers for accessing our water mains. The performance obligations vary for these revenues, but all are primarily recognized over time as the service is delivered.  Other and Eliminations – Other and eliminations consist of our market-based revenues, which comprises: Aqua Infrastructure and Aqua Resources (described below), and intercompany eliminations for revenue billed between our subsidiaries.  Aqua Infrastructure is the holding company for our 49% investment in a joint venture that operates a private pipeline system to supply raw water to natural gas well drilling operations in the Marcellus Shale of north central Pennsylvania. The joint venture earns revenues through providing non-utility raw water supply services to natural gas drilling companies which enter into water supply contracts. The performance obligation is to deliver non-potable water to the joint venture’s customers. Aqua Infrastructure’s share of the revenues recognized by the joint venture is reflected, net, in equity earnings in joint venture on our consolidated statements of net income.  Aqua Resources earns revenues by providing non-regulated water and wastewater services through operating and maintenance contracts, and third-party water and sewer service line repair. The performance obligations are performing agreed upon services in the contract, most commonly operation of third-party water or wastewater treatment services, or billing services, or allowing the use of our logo to a third-party water and sewer service line repair. Revenues are primarily recognized over time as service is delivered.

Goodwill

Goodwill	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Goodwill [Abstract]
Goodwill	Note 3 – Goodwill  The following table summarizes the changes in the Company’s goodwill, by business segment:     Regulated  Segment Other Consolidated  Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 37,389 $ 4,841 $ 42,230  Goodwill acquired 25 - 25  Reclassification to utility plant acquisition adjustment (25) - (25)  Other (180) - (180)  Balance at June 30, 2018 $ 37,209 $ 4,841 $ 42,050  The reclassification of goodwill to utility plant acquisition adjustment results from a mechanism approved by the applicable utility commission. The mechanism provides for the transfer over time, and the recovery through customer rates, of goodwill associated with some acquisitions upon achieving specific objectives.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Note 4 – Acquisitions  During the first six months of 2018, the Company completed three acquisitions of water and wastewater utility systems in various states adding 448 customers. The total purchase price of these utility systems consisted of $190 in cash. The purchase price allocation for these acquisitions consisted primarily of acquired property, plant and equipment. The pro forma effect of the businesses acquired is not material either individually or collectively to the Company’s results of operations.  In July 2018, the Company entered into a purchase agreement to acquire the wastewater utility system assets of Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, which serves approximately 10,500 customers for $50,250 . The purchase price for this pending acquisition is subject to certain adjustments at closing, and is subject to regulatory approval, including the final determination of the fair value of the rate base acquired.  In addition to the Company’s pending acquisition in Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, as part of the Company’s growth-through-acquisition strategy, the Company entered into purchase agreements to acquire the water or wastewater utility system assets of seven municipalities for a total combined purchase price in cash of $152,800 , which we plan to finance by the issuance of debt. The purchase price for these acquisitions is subject to certain adjustments at closing, and the acquisitions are subject to regulatory approvals, including the final determination of the fair value of the rate base acquired. In July 2018, we closed on the following acquisitions:  · Manteno, Illinois for $25,000 in cash, which serves approximately 3,800 wastewater customers, and · Limerick, Pennsylvania for $75,100 in cash, which serves approximately 5,400 wastewater customers. Closings for our remaining acquisitions are expected to occur by the end of 2019, subject to the timing of the regulatory approval process. In total, these acquisitions will add approximately 16,750 customers in two of the states in which the Company operates in.  During 2017, the Company completed four acquisitions of water and wastewater utility systems in various states adding 1,003 customers. The total purchase price of these utility systems consisted of $5,860 in cash, which resulted in $72 of goodwill being recorded. The pro forma effect of the businesses acquired is not material either individually or collectively to the Company’s results of operations. 

Assets Held For Sale

Assets Held For Sale	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Assets Held For Sale [Abstract]
Assets Held For Sale	Note 5 – Assets Held for Sale  In the first quarter of 2017, the Company decided to market for sale a water system that serves approximately 265 customers. This water system is reported as assets held for sale in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. The Company has been in discussions with a potential buyer for the water system and is currently negotiating the terms of a sale, which will require regulatory approval. 

Capitalization

Capitalization	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Capitalization [Abstract]
Capitalization	Note 6 – Capitalization  In June 2018, the Company amended its unsecured revolving credit facility, to extend the expiration from February 2021 to June 2023 , and to increase the facility from $250,000 to $500,000 . Funds borrowed under this facility are classified as long-term debt and are used to provide working capital as well as support for letters of credit for insurance policies and other financing arrangements. Interest under this facility is based at the Company’s option, on the prime rate, an adjusted Euro-Rate, an adjusted federal funds rate or at rates offered by the banks. A facility fee is charged on the total commitment amount of the agreement.  In June 2018, Aqua Pennsylvania issued $100,000 of first mortgage bonds, of which $25,000 is due in 2042 , $10,000 is due in 2045 , and $65,000 is due in 2048 with interest rates of 3.99% , 4.04% , and 4.09% , respectively. The proceeds from these bonds were used to repay existing indebtedness and for general corporate purposes.  In July 2018, Aqua Pennsylvania redeemed $49,660 of tax-exempt bonds at 5.25% that were originally maturing in 2042 and 2043 , respectively. 

Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Financial Instruments	Note 7 – Financial Instruments The Company follows the FASB’s accounting guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures, which defines fair value and establishes a framework for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities. That framework provides a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:  · Level 1: unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access; · Level 2: inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted market prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in non-active markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; or · Level 3: inputs that are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.  The asset’s or liability’s fair value measurement level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Valuation techniques used need to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. There have been no changes in the valuation techniques used to measure fair value, or asset or liability transfers between the levels of the fair value hierarchy for the quarter ended June 30, 2018 .  Financial instruments are recorded at carrying value in the financial statements and approximate fair value as of the dates presented. The fair value of these instruments is disclosed below in accordance with current accounting guidance related to financial instruments.  The fair value of loans payable is determined based on its carrying amount and utilizing Level 1 methods and assumptions. As of December 31, 2017 , the carrying amount of the Company’s loans payable was $ 3,650 , which equates to their estimated fair value. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, which is comprised of uninvested cash, is determined based on the net asset value per unit utilizing Level 1 methods and assumptions. As of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the carrying amounts of the Company's cash and cash equivalents was $52,948 and $4,204 , respectively, which equates to their fair value. The Company’s assets underlying the deferred compensation and non-qualified pension plans are determined by the fair value of mutual funds, which are based on quoted market prices from active markets utilizing Level 1 methods and assumptions. As of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the carrying amount of these securities was $21,759 and $21,776 , which equates to their fair value, and is reported in the consolidated balance sheet in deferred charges and other assets.  Unrealized gain and losses on equity securities held in conjunction with our non-qualified pension plan is as follows:      Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2018  Net gain (loss) recognized during the period on equity securities $ 19 $ (2)  Less: net gain / loss recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period - -  Unrealized gain (loss) recognized during the reporting period on equity securities still held at the reporting date $ 19 $ (2)  The net gain (loss) recognized on equity securities is presented on the consolidated statements of net income on the line item “Other.” Additionally, the unrealized gain (loss) recognized during the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, was reported on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.  The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s long-term debt is as follows:    June 30, December 31,  2018 2017  Carrying amount $ 2,320,903 $ 2,143,127  Estimated fair value 2,322,759 2,262,785  The fair value of long-term debt has been determined by discounting the future cash flows using current market interest rates for similar financial instruments of the same duration utilizing Level 2 methods and assumptions.  The Company’s customers’ advances for construction have a carrying value of $93,342 as of June 30, 2018 , and $93,186 as of December 31, 2017 . Their relative fair values cannot be accurately estimated because future refund payments depend on several variables, including new customer connections, customer consumption levels, and future rates. Portions of these non-interest bearing instruments are payable annually through 2028 and amounts not paid by the respective contract expiration dates become non-refundable. The fair value of these amounts would, however, be less than their carrying value due to the non-interest bearing feature.

Net Income Per Common Share

Net Income Per Common Share	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Net Income Per Common Share [Abstract]
Net Income Per Common Share	Note 8 – Net Income per Common Share Basic net income per common share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted net income per common share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and potentially dilutive shares. The dilutive effect of employee stock-based compensation is included in the computation of diluted net income per common share. The dilutive effect of stock-based compensation is calculated using the treasury stock method and expected proceeds upon exercise or issuance of the stock-based compensation. The treasury stock method assumes that the proceeds from stock-based compensation are used to purchase the Company’s common stock at the average market price during the period. The following table summarizes the shares, in thousands, used in computing basic and diluted net income per common share:     Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Average common shares outstanding during the period for basic computation 177,901 177,609 177,852 177,545  Dilutive effect of employee stock-based compensation 372 436 447 497  Average common shares outstanding during the period for diluted computation 178,273 178,045 178,299 178,042   For the three months ended June 30, 2017 and the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, all of the Company’s employee stock options were included in the calculations of diluted net income per share as the calculated cost to exercise the stock options was less than the average market price of the Company’s common stock during these periods. For the three months ended June 30, 2018, employee stock options to purchase 159,244 shares of common stock were excluded from the calculation of diluted net income per share as the calculated cost to exercise the stock options was greater than the average market price of the Company’s common stock during this period.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Note 9 – Stock-based Compensation Under the Company’s 2009 Omnibus Equity Compensation Plan, as amended as of February 27, 2014 (the “2009 Plan”), as approved by the Company’s shareholders to replace the 2004 Equity Compensation Plan (the “2004 Plan”), stock options, stock units, stock awards, stock appreciation rights, dividend equivalents, and other stock-based awards may be granted to employees, non-employee directors, and consultants and advisors. No further grants may be made under the 2004 Plan. The 2009 Plan authorizes 6,250,000 shares for issuance under the plan. A maximum of 3,125,000 shares under the 2009 Plan may be issued pursuant to stock awards, stock units and other stock-based awards, subject to adjustment as provided in the 2009 Plan. During any calendar year, no individual may be granted (i) stock options and stock appreciation rights under the 2009 Plan for more than 500,000 shares of Company stock in the aggregate or (ii) stock awards, stock units or other stock-based awards under the 2009 Plan for more than 500,000 shares of Company stock in the aggregate, subject to adjustment as provided in the 2009 Plan. Awards to employees and consultants under the 2009 Plan are made by a committee of the Board of Directors of the Company, except that with respect to awards to the Chief Executive Officer, the committee recommends those awards for approval by the non-employee directors of the Board of Directors. In the case of awards to non-employee directors, the Board of Directors makes such awards. At June 30, 2018, 3,413,103 shares were still available for issuance under the 2009 Plan. Performance Share Units – A performance share unit (“PSU”) represents the right to receive a share of the Company’s common stock if specified performance goals are met over the three-year performance period specified in the grant, subject to exceptions through the respective vesting period, generally three years. Each grantee is granted a target award of PSUs, and may earn between 0 % and 200 % of the target amount depending on the Company’s performance against the performance goals. The following table provides compensation costs for stock-based compensation related to PSUs:     Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 1,339 $ 971 $ 2,198 $ 1,841  Income tax benefit 373 394 614 747 The following table summarizes the PSU transactions for the six months ended June 30, 2018:     Number Weighted  of Average  Share Units Fair Value  Nonvested share units at beginning of period 452,333 $ 26.16  Granted 87,593 37.65  Performance criteria adjustment 9,505 31.89  Forfeited (7,780) 30.61  Share units vested in prior period and issued in current period 9,400 26.54  Share units issued (136,081) 31.70  Nonvested share units at end of period 414,970 26.83  A portion of the fair value of PSUs was estimated at the grant date based on the probability of satisfying the market-based conditions using the Monte Carlo valuation method, which assesses probabilities of various outcomes of market conditions. The other portion of the fair value of the PSUs is based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock at the grant date, regardless of whether the market-based condition is satisfied. The per unit weighted-average fair value at the date of grant for PSUs granted during the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 was $37.65 and $30.79 , respectively. The fair value of each PSU grant is amortized monthly into compensation expense on a straight-line basis over their respective vesting periods, generally 36 months. The accrual of compensation costs is based on the Company’s estimate of the final expected value of the award, and is adjusted as required for the portion based on the performance-based condition. The Company assumes that forfeitures will be minimal, and recognizes forfeitures as they occur, which results in a reduction in compensation expense. As the payout of the PSUs includes dividend equivalents, no separate dividend yield assumption is required in calculating the fair value of the PSUs. The recording of compensation expense for PSUs has no impact on net cash flows.  Restricted Stock Units – A restricted stock unit (“RSU”) represents the right to receive a share of the Company’s common stock. RSUs are eligible to be earned at the end of a specified restricted period, generally three years, beginning on the date of grant. The Company assumes that forfeitures will be minimal, and recognizes forfeitures as they occur, which results in a reduction in compensation expense. As the payout of the RSUs includes dividend equivalents, no separate dividend yield assumption is required in calculating the fair value of the RSUs. The following table provides the compensation cost and income tax benefit for stock-based compensation related to RSUs:    Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 355 $ 322 $ 706 $ 603  Income tax benefit 100 133 201 249  The following table summarizes the RSU transactions for the six months ended June 30, 2018:     Number Weighted  of Average  Stock Units Fair Value  Nonvested stock units at beginning of period 116,787 $ 29.46  Granted 54,073 34.91  Stock units vested in prior period and issued in current period 1,467 31.47  Stock units vested and issued (42,836) 26.39  Forfeited (322) 34.91  Nonvested stock units at end of period 129,169 32.77  The per unit weighted-average fair value at the date of grant for RSUs granted during the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 was $34.91 and $ 30.37 , respectively.  Stock Options – A stock option represents the option to purchase a number of shares of common stock of the Company as specified in the stock option grant agreement at the exercise price per share as determined by the closing market price of our common stock on the grant date. Stock options are exercisable in installments of 33% annually , starting one year from the grant date and expire 10 years from the grant date. The fair value of each stock option is amortized into compensation expense using the graded-vesting method, which results in the recognition of compensation costs over the requisite service period for each separately vesting tranche of the stock options as though the stock options were, in substance, multiple stock option grants. The following table provides the compensation cost and income tax benefit for stock-based compensation related to stock options:    Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 154 $ 74 $ 248 $ 104  Income tax benefit 42 33 101 125  The fair value of options was estimated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following assumptions were used in the application of this valuation model:    2018 2017  Expected term (years) 5.46 5.45  Risk-free interest rate 2.72% 2.01%  Expected volatility 17.2% 17.7%  Dividend yield 2.37% 2.51%  Grant date fair value per option $ 5.10 $ 4.07  Historical information was the principal basis for the selection of the expected term and dividend yield. The expected volatility is based on a weighted-average combination of historical and implied volatilities over a time period that approximates the expected term of the option. The risk-free interest rate was selected based upon the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the expected term of the option.  The following table summarizes stock option transactions for the six months ended June 30, 2018:    Weighted Weighted  Average Average Aggregate  Exercise Remaining Intrinsic  Shares Price Life (years) Value  Outstanding at beginning of period 364,932 $ 19.83  Granted 160,859 34.51  Forfeited (4,489) 31.92  Expired / Cancelled (107) 30.47  Exercised (63,099) 16.14  Outstanding at end of period 458,096 $ 25.37 5.9 $ 4,494   Exercisable at end of period 225,117 $ 17.23 2.4 $ 4,040  Stock Awards – Stock awards represent the issuance of the Company’s common stock, without restriction. The issuance of stock awards results in compensation expense which is equal to the fair market value of the stock on the grant date, and is expensed immediately upon grant. The following table provides the compensation cost and income tax benefit for stock-based compensation related to stock awards:       Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 140 $ 131 $ 280 $ 262  Income tax benefit 41 54 81 109  The following table summarizes stock award transactions for the six months ended June 30, 2018:      Number Weighted  of Average  Stock Awards Fair Value  Nonvested stock awards at beginning of period - $ -  Granted 8,099 34.58  Vested (8,099) 34.58  Nonvested stock awards at end of period - -  The per unit weighted-average fair value at the date of grant for stock awards granted during the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 was $34.58 and $32.79 , respectively.

Pension Plans And Other Postret

Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]
Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits	Note 10 – Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits The Company maintains a qualified defined benefit pension plan (the “Pension Plan”), a nonqualified pension plan, and other postretirement benefit plans for certain of its employees. The net periodic benefit cost is based on estimated values and an extensive use of assumptions about the discount rate, expected return on plan assets, the rate of future compensation increases received by the Company’s employees, mortality, turnover, and medical costs. The following tables provide the components of net periodic benefit cost:    Pension Benefits  Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Service cost $ 812 $ 794 $ 1,625 $ 1,587  Interest cost 2,874 3,108 5,748 6,217  Expected return on plan assets (4,553) (4,270) (9,106) (8,539)  Amortization of prior service cost 132 145 264 290  Amortization of actuarial loss 1,823 2,001 3,646 4,002  Net periodic benefit cost $ 1,088 $ 1,778 $ 2,177 $ 3,557   Other  Postretirement Benefits  Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Service cost $ 262 $ 255 $ 525 $ 510  Interest cost 708 737 1,416 1,473  Expected return on plan assets (677) (647) (1,353) (1,294)  Amortization of prior service cost (127) (127) (255) (254)  Amortization of actuarial loss 296 291 591 583  Net periodic benefit cost $ 462 $ 509 $ 924 $ 1,018  The components of net periodic benefit cost other than service cost are presented on the consolidated statements of net income on the line item “Other.”  The Company made cash contributions of $8,627 to its Pension Plan during the first six months of 2018, and intends to make additional cash contributions of $3,857 to the Pension Plan during the remainder of 2018.

Water And Wastewater Rates

Water And Wastewater Rates	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Water And Wastewater Rates [Abstract]
Water And Wastewater Rates	Note 11 – Water and Wastewater Rates During the first six months of 2018, the Company’s operating divisions in Illinois and Ohio were granted base rate increases designed to increase total operating revenues on an annual basis by $8,640 . On April 6, 2018, the base rate case in Illinois was petitioned for a rehearing; however, this petition was denied on April 19, 2018. No appeals were filed and the approved rates are considered final. Further, during the first six months of 2018, the Company’s operating divisions in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and New Jersey received approval to bill infrastructure rehabilitation surcharges designed to increase total operating revenues on an annual basis by $19,343 . Additionally, commencing in the second quarter of 2018, due to the decrease in our federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the Company’s operating divisions in Texas, New Jersey, Ohio, and Indiana implemented base rate reductions or added credits to customer bills that are estimated to reduce total operating revenues by $7,959 on an annualized basis.  As of February 10, 2018, the Company had been billing interim rates in Virginia, which had a base rate case filing in progress. Because of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which reduced our federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% , our Virginia subsidiary reduced its water rate increase request and eliminated its wastewater rate increase request. In May 2018, the rates charged to our Virginia customers reverted to the previous rates, pursuant to a submitted stipulation, which is currently pending approval by the Virginia State Corporation Commission. As of June 30, 2018, $183 of billings already collected has been refunded to our Virginia customers.

Taxes Other Than Income Taxes

Taxes Other Than Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes [Abstract]
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes	Note 12 – Taxes Other than Income Taxes The following table provides the components of taxes other than income taxes:    Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Property $ 6,775 $ 6,867 $ 13,524 $ 13,652  Gross receipts, excise and franchise 3,789 3,363 7,053 6,538  Payroll 2,180 2,132 5,455 5,256  Regulatory assessments 627 630 1,254 1,259  Pumping fees 1,424 1,350 2,415 2,294  Other 34 77 95 157  Total taxes other than income $ 14,829 $ 14,419 $ 29,796 $ 29,156 

Segment Information

Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Information	Note 13 – Segment Information The Company has ten operating segments and one reportable segment. The Regulated segment, the Company’s single reportable segment, is comprised of eight operating segments representing its water and wastewater regulated utility companies which are organized by the states where the Company provides water and wastewater services. These operating segments are aggregated into one reportable segment because each of these operating segments has the following similarities: economic characteristics, nature of services, production processes, customers, water distribution or wastewater collection methods, and the nature of the regulatory environment.  Two operating segments are included within the Other category below. These segments are not quantitatively significant and are comprised of Aqua Infrastructure and Aqua Resources. Aqua Infrastructure provides non-utility raw water supply services for firms in the natural gas drilling industry. Aqua Resources provides water and wastewater service through operating and maintenance contracts with municipal authorities and other parties close to its utility companies’ service territories; and offers, through a third-party, water and sewer service line protection solutions and repair services to households. In addition to these segments, Other is comprised of other business activities not included in the reportable segment, including corporate costs that have not been allocated to the Regulated segment and intersegment eliminations. Corporate costs include general and administrative expenses, and interest expense.  The following table presents information about the Company’s reportable segment:    Three Months Ended Three Months Ended  June 30, 2018 June 30, 2017  Regulated Other Consolidated Regulated Other Consolidated  Operating revenues $ 210,824 $ 1,036 $ 211,860 $ 201,960 $ 1,458 $ 203,418  Operations and maintenance expense 73,047 468 73,515 71,322 (1,707) 69,615  Depreciation 36,603 10 36,613 34,141 (734) 33,407  Amortization 103 46 149 145 (18) 127  Operating income 86,672 82 86,754 82,390 3,460 85,850  Interest expense, net 21,756 1,967 23,723 19,747 1,640 21,387  Allowance for funds used during construction 2,577 - 2,577 3,463 - 3,463  Income tax expense (benefit) (147) (220) (367) 5,249 320 5,569  Net income (loss) 67,877 (1,287) 66,590 59,629 1,339 60,968   Six Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, 2018 June 30, 2017  Regulated Other Consolidated Regulated Other Consolidated  Operating revenues $ 404,331 $ 1,876 $ 406,207 $ 388,309 $ 2,896 $ 391,205  Operations and maintenance expense 144,350 3,111 147,461 137,592 (87) 137,505  Depreciation 72,561 19 72,580 67,807 (563) 67,244  Amortization 191 88 279 354 (38) 316  Operating income (loss) 158,730 (2,639) 156,091 154,697 2,287 156,984  Interest expense, net 43,464 3,730 47,194 39,524 3,189 42,713  Allowance for funds used during construction 5,444 - 5,444 6,656 - 6,656  Income tax expense (benefit) (790) (1,708) (2,498) 9,105 (606) 8,499  Net income (loss) 121,904 (4,475) 117,429 110,525 (485) 110,040  Capital expenditures 216,614 - 216,614 208,174 298 208,472      June 30, December 31,  2018 2017  Total assets:  Regulated $ 6,484,778 $ 6,236,109  Other 85,567 96,354  Consolidated $ 6,570,345 $ 6,332,463 

Commitments And Contingencies

Commitments And Contingencies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies	Note 14 – Commitments and Contingencies The Company is routinely involved in various disputes, claims, lawsuits and other regulatory and legal matters, including both asserted and unasserted legal claims, in the ordinary course of business. The status of each such matter, referred to herein as a loss contingency, is reviewed and assessed in accordance with applicable accounting rules regarding the nature of the matter, the likelihood that a loss will be incurred, and the amounts involved. As of June 30, 2018, the aggregate amount of $18,602 is accrued for loss contingencies and is reported in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as other accrued liabilities and other liabilities. These accruals represent management’s best estimate of probable loss (as defined in the accounting guidance) for loss contingencies or the low end of a range of losses if no single probable loss can be estimated. For some loss contingencies, the Company is unable to estimate the amount of the probable loss or range of probable losses. While the final outcome of these loss contingencies cannot be predicted with certainty, and unfavorable outcomes could negatively impact the Company, at this time in the opinion of management, the final resolution of these matters are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Further, the Company has insurance coverage for certain of these loss contingencies, and as of June 30, 2018, estimates that approximately $6,541 of the amount accrued for these matters are probable of recovery through insurance, which amount is also reported in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as deferred charges and other assets, net.  Although the results of legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, there are no pending legal proceedings to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or to which any of its properties is the subject that are material or are expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.  In addition to the aforementioned loss contingencies, the Company self-insures its employee medical benefit program, and maintains stop-loss coverage to limit the exposure arising from these claims. The Company’s reserve for these claims totaled $1,451 at June 30, 2018 and represents a reserve for unpaid claim costs, including an estimate for the cost of incurred but not reported claims.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 15 – Income Taxes During the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Company’s Federal net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforward decreased by $26,393 . In addition, during the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Company’s state NOL carryforward increased by $15,835 . As of June 30, 2018, the balance of the Company’s Federal NOL was $36,909 . The Company believes its Federal NOL carryforward is more likely than not to be recovered and requires no valuation allowance. As of June 30, 2018, the balance of the Company’s gross state NOL was $642,923 , a portion of which is offset by a valuation allowance because the Company does not believe the state NOLs are more likely than not to be realized. The Company’s Federal and state NOL carryforwards begin to expire in 2032 and 2023 , respectively. The Company’s Federal and state NOL carryforwards are reduced by an unrecognized tax position, on a gross basis, of $ 64,914 and $85,550 , respectively. The amounts of the Company’s Federal and state NOL carryforwards prior to being reduced by the unrecognized tax positions were $ 101,823 and $728,473 respectively. The Company records its unrecognized tax benefit as a reduction to its deferred income tax liability.  In accordance with a 2012 settlement agreement with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, Aqua Pennsylvania expenses, for tax purposes, qualifying utility asset improvement costs, which results in a substantial reduction in income tax expense and greater net income and cash flows. The Company’s effective income tax rate for the second quarter of 2018 and 2017 was -0.6% and 8.4% , respectively, and for the first six months of 2018 and 2017 was -2.2% and 7.2% , respectively.  As of June 30, 2018, the total gross unrecognized tax benefit was $18,986 . As a result of the regulatory treatment afforded for qualifying infrastructure improvements in Pennsylvania, $25,569 , if recognized, would affect the Company’s effective tax rate. At December 31, 2017, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $17,583 .  Accounting rules for uncertain tax positions specify that tax positions for which the timing of resolution is uncertain should be classified as long-term liabilities. Judgment is required in evaluating the Company’s uncertain tax positions and determining the provision for income taxes. Management believes that an adequate provision has been made for any adjustments that may result from tax examinations. Although the timing of income tax audit resolutions and negotiations with taxing authorities is highly uncertain, the Company does not anticipate a significant change to the total amount of unrecognized income tax benefits within the next 12 months.  On December 22, 2017, President Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJA”) into law. Substantially all of the provisions of the TCJA are effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017. The TCJA includes significant changes to the Internal Revenue Code and the taxation of business entities, and includes specific provisions related to regulated public utilities. Significant changes that impact the Company included in the TCJA are a reduction in the corporate federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% , effective January 1, 2018, and a limitation of the utilization of NOLs arising after December 31, 2017 to 80% of taxable income with an indefinite carryforward. The specific TCJA provisions related to our regulated entities generally allow for the continued deductibility of interest expense, the elimination of full expensing for tax purposes of certain property acquired after September 27, 2017 and the continuation of certain rate normalization requirements for accelerated depreciation benefits. Our market-based companies still qualify for 100% deductibility of qualifying property acquired after September 27, 2017.  In accordance with the FASB’s accounting guidance for income taxes , the tax effects of changes in tax laws must be recognized in the period in which the law is enacted, or December 22, 2017 for the TCJA. Additionally, deferred tax assets and liabilities are required to be measured at the enacted tax rate expected to apply when temporary differences are to be realized or settled. Thus, at the date of enactment, the Company’s deferred taxes were re-measured based upon the new tax rate. For our regulated entities, the change in deferred taxes is recorded as either an offset to a regulatory asset or liability and may be subject to refund to customers. In instances where the deferred tax balances are not in ratemaking, such as the Company’s market-based operations, the change in deferred taxes is recorded as an adjustment to our deferred tax provision.  The staff of the SEC has recognized the complexity of reflecting the impacts of the TCJA, and on December 22, 2017 issued guidance, which clarifies accounting for income taxes if information is not yet available or complete and provides for up to a one year period in which to complete the required analyses and accounting (the measurement period). The guidance describes three scenarios (or “buckets”) associated with a company’s status of accounting for income tax reform: (1) a company is complete with its accounting for certain effects of tax reform, (2) a company is able to determine a reasonable estimate for certain effects of tax reform and records that estimate as a provisional amount, or (3) a company is not able to determine a reasonable estimate and therefore continues to apply the FASB’s accounting guidance, based on the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately prior to the TCJA being enacted.  The Company has completed or has made a reasonable estimate for the measurement and accounting of the effect of the TCJA which were reflected in the December 31, 2017 financial statements, which resulted in a decrease to the accumulated deferred income tax liability of $303,320 . Additionally, due to the reduction in the Company’s corporate income tax rate, in the first quarter of 2018, the Company reserved $2,532 for amounts expected to be refundable to utility customers. During the first quarter of 2018, in Illinois and Virginia, the Company’s base rates have been adjusted to reflect the lower corporate income tax rate, and Texas and New Jersey implemented adjusted tariff rates in the second quarter of 2018. In the second quarter of 2018, the Company reserved $1,251 for amounts expected to be refundable to utility customers.  As of December 31, 2017, the Company had provisionally estimated that $175,108 of deferred income tax liabilities for our Pennsylvania subsidiary will be a regulatory liability as a result of the accounting effect of the TCJA. In May 2018, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (“PA PUC”) issued an order that set forth the requirements for utilities to either immediately initiate the refund or otherwise address the impacts of the TCJA in the utilities’ next rate case. Aqua Pennsylvania was included in the rate filing group of utilities as the Company plans to file a base rate case in August 2018, during which the PA PUC is expected to address the effects of the TCJA within the base rate case filing. Additionally, the PA PUC has ordered that all rates charged by utilities, including those billed by Aqua Pennsylvania since January 1, 2018, are temporary and subject to refund pending the outcome of its review of the effects of the TCJA within the next base rate case. Based on the Company’s review of the present circumstances, no reserve is considered necessary for the revenue recognized to date in 2018.  Additionally, two operating divisions in Ohio operate under locally-negotiated contractual rates with their respective counties, and it is expected that negotiations will result in a contract that will return to customers the effects of the reduction in the corporate net income tax rate under the TCJA; however, these negotiations have not yet started. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had provisionally estimated that $9,419 of deferred income tax liabilities for these two divisions will be a regulatory liability. Overall, the Company has applied a reasonable interpretation of the impact of the TCJA and a reasonable estimate of the regulatory resolution. Further clarification of the TCJA and regulatory resolution may change the amounts estimated for the deferred income tax provision and the accumulated deferred income tax liability.  The Company’s regulated operations accounting for income taxes are impacted by the FASB’s accounting guidance for regulated operations. Reductions in accumulated deferred income tax balances due to the reduction in the Federal corporate income tax rates to 21% under the provisions of the TCJA will result in amounts previously collected from utility customers for these deferred taxes to be refundable to such customers, generally through reductions in future rates. The TCJA includes provisions that stipulate how these excess deferred taxes related to certain accelerated tax depreciation deduction benefits are to be passed back to customers. Potential refunds of other deferred taxes will be determined by our state regulators. Our state regulatory commissions have or are in the process of issuing procedural orders directing how the tax law changes are to be reflected in our utility customer rates.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Recent Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Note 16 – Recent Accounting Pronouncements  In March 2017, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost (net benefit cost). Historically, net benefit cost is reported as an employee cost within operating income, net of amounts capitalized. The guidance requires the bifurcation of net benefit cost. The service cost component will be presented with other employee compensation costs in operating income and the other components of net benefit cost will be reported separately outside of operating income, and will not be eligible for capitalization. The guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within that reporting period, and is to be applied retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net benefit cost, and on a prospective basis for the capitalization of only the service cost component of net benefit cost. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the updated guidance, which did not have a material impact on its results of operations or financial position, and resulted in the reclassification, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, of $1,238 and $2,478 , respectively, for the other components of net benefit cost from operations and maintenance expense to other in the consolidated statements of net income.  In June 2016, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on accounting for impairments of financial instruments, including trade receivables, which requires companies to estimate expected credit losses on trade receivables over their contractual life. Historically, companies reserve for expected credit losses by applying historical loss percentages to respective aging categories. Under the updated accounting guidance, companies will use a forward-looking methodology that incorporates lifetime expected credit losses, which will result in an allowance for expected credit losses for receivables that are either current or not yet due, which historically have not been reserved for. The updated accounting guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption available. The Company is evaluating the requirements of the updated guidance to determine the impact of adoption.  In February 2016, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on accounting for leases, which requires lessees to establish a right-of-use asset and a lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms longer than 12 months. For income statement purposes, leases will be classified as either operating or finance. Operating leases will result in straight-line expense while finance leases will result in a front-loaded expense pattern. The updated accounting guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption available. The Company is in the process of evaluating the requirements of the updated guidance to determine the impact adoption will have on its consolidated financial statements; however, the Company expects that the adoption of the updated accounting guidance on accounting for leases should not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet due to the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities.  In January 2016, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities, which amends certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments, including the requirement to measure certain equity investments at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. The updated guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 31, 2017. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the updated guidance, which did not have a material impact on its results of operations or financial position, and resulted in the recognition of $860 of previous unrealized gains, which was recorded as an adjustment to beginning retained earnings (refer to the presentation of “cumulative effect of change in accounting principle – financial instruments” on the Company’s consolidated statement of equity).  In May 2014, the FASB issued updated accounting guidance on recognizing revenue from contracts with customers, which outlines a single comprehensive model that an entity will apply to determine the measurement of revenue and timing of recognition. The underlying principle is that an entity will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. In 2017, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”) power and utility entities revenue recognition task force determined that contributions in aid of construction are not in the scope of the new standard, which was approved by the AICPA’s revenue recognition working group. The Company implemented the updated guidance using the modified retrospective approach on January 1, 2018, which did not result in a change in the Company’s measurement of revenue, and reached the following conclusions:  · The Company’s tariff sale contracts, including those with lower credit quality customers, are generally deemed to be probable of collection, and thus the timing of revenue recognition will continue to be concurrent with the delivery of water and wastewater services, consistent with our current practice. · Contributions in aid of construction are outside of the scope of the standard, and will continue to be accounted for as a noncurrent liability.

Revenue Recognition (Tables)

Revenue Recognition (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Revenue Recognition [Abstract]
Schedule Of Disaggregation Of Revenue	  Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30,2018 June 30,2018  Water Revenues Wastewater Revenues Other Revenues Water Revenues Wastewater Revenues Other Revenues  Regulated:  Residential $ 122,530 $ 17,583 $ - $ 236,367 $ 35,115 $ -  Commercial 33,456 2,975 - 63,798 5,863 -  Fire protection 7,970 - - 15,908 - -  Industrial 7,309 498 - 13,669 961 -  Other water 14,220 - - 25,241 - -  Other wastewater - 1,920 - - 2,711 -  Alternative revenue program (120) 164 - (120) 164 -  Other utility - - 2,319 - - 4,654  Regulated segment total 185,365 23,140 2,319 354,863 44,814 4,654  Other and eliminations - - 1,036 - - 1,876  Consolidated $ 185,365 $ 23,140 $ 3,355 $ 354,863 $ 44,814 $ 6,530  

Goodwill (Tables)

Goodwill (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Goodwill [Abstract]
Schedule Of Goodwill	   Regulated  Segment Other Consolidated  Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 37,389 $ 4,841 $ 42,230  Goodwill acquired 25 - 25  Reclassification to utility plant acquisition adjustment (25) - (25)  Other (180) - (180)  Balance at June 30, 2018 $ 37,209 $ 4,841 $ 42,050 

Financial Instruments (Tables)

Financial Instruments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Summary Of Unrealized Gain And Losses	   Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2018  Net gain (loss) recognized during the period on equity securities $ 19 $ (2)  Less: net gain / loss recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period - -  Unrealized gain (loss) recognized during the reporting period on equity securities still held at the reporting date $ 19 $ (2) 
Schedule Of Carrying Amounts And Estimated Fair Values Of Long-Term Debt	   June 30, December 31,  2018 2017  Carrying amount $ 2,320,903 $ 2,143,127  Estimated fair value 2,322,759 2,262,785 

Net Income Per Common Share (Ta

Net Income Per Common Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Net Income Per Common Share [Abstract]
Schedule Of Earnings Per Share	   Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Average common shares outstanding during the period for basic computation 177,901 177,609 177,852 177,545  Dilutive effect of employee stock-based compensation 372 436 447 497  Average common shares outstanding during the period for diluted computation 178,273 178,045 178,299 178,042  

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary Of PSU Transactions	   Number Weighted  of Average  Share Units Fair Value  Nonvested share units at beginning of period 452,333 $ 26.16  Granted 87,593 37.65  Performance criteria adjustment 9,505 31.89  Forfeited (7,780) 30.61  Share units vested in prior period and issued in current period 9,400 26.54  Share units issued (136,081) 31.70  Nonvested share units at end of period 414,970 26.83  
Summary Of RSU Transactions	   Number Weighted  of Average  Stock Units Fair Value  Nonvested stock units at beginning of period 116,787 $ 29.46  Granted 54,073 34.91  Stock units vested in prior period and issued in current period 1,467 31.47  Stock units vested and issued (42,836) 26.39  Forfeited (322) 34.91  Nonvested stock units at end of period 129,169 32.77 
Assumptions Used In The Pricing Model	  2018 2017  Expected term (years) 5.46 5.45  Risk-free interest rate 2.72% 2.01%  Expected volatility 17.2% 17.7%  Dividend yield 2.37% 2.51%  Grant date fair value per option $ 5.10 $ 4.07 
Summary Of Stock Option Transactions	   Weighted Weighted  Average Average Aggregate  Exercise Remaining Intrinsic  Shares Price Life (years) Value  Outstanding at beginning of period 364,932 $ 19.83  Granted 160,859 34.51  Forfeited (4,489) 31.92  Expired / Cancelled (107) 30.47  Exercised (63,099) 16.14  Outstanding at end of period 458,096 $ 25.37 5.9 $ 4,494   Exercisable at end of period 225,117 $ 17.23 2.4 $ 4,040 
Performance Share Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary Of Compensation Costs	   Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 1,339 $ 971 $ 2,198 $ 1,841  Income tax benefit 373 394 614 747 
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary Of Compensation Costs	   Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 355 $ 322 $ 706 $ 603  Income tax benefit 100 133 201 249 
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary Of Compensation Costs	   Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 154 $ 74 $ 248 $ 104  Income tax benefit 42 33 101 125  
Stock Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary Of Compensation Costs	   Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expenses $ 140 $ 131 $ 280 $ 262  Income tax benefit 41 54 81 109 
Summary Of Nonvested Share Activity	   Number Weighted  of Average  Stock Awards Fair Value  Nonvested stock awards at beginning of period - $ -  Granted 8,099 34.58  Vested (8,099) 34.58  Nonvested stock awards at end of period - - 

Pension Plans And Other Postr34

Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]
Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Costs	   Pension Benefits  Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Service cost $ 812 $ 794 $ 1,625 $ 1,587  Interest cost 2,874 3,108 5,748 6,217  Expected return on plan assets (4,553) (4,270) (9,106) (8,539)  Amortization of prior service cost 132 145 264 290  Amortization of actuarial loss 1,823 2,001 3,646 4,002  Net periodic benefit cost $ 1,088 $ 1,778 $ 2,177 $ 3,557   Other  Postretirement Benefits  Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Service cost $ 262 $ 255 $ 525 $ 510  Interest cost 708 737 1,416 1,473  Expected return on plan assets (677) (647) (1,353) (1,294)  Amortization of prior service cost (127) (127) (255) (254)  Amortization of actuarial loss 296 291 591 583  Net periodic benefit cost $ 462 $ 509 $ 924 $ 1,018 

Taxes Other Than Income Taxes (

Taxes Other Than Income Taxes (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes [Abstract]
Components Of Taxes Other Than Income Taxes	   Three Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, June 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Property $ 6,775 $ 6,867 $ 13,524 $ 13,652  Gross receipts, excise and franchise 3,789 3,363 7,053 6,538  Payroll 2,180 2,132 5,455 5,256  Regulatory assessments 627 630 1,254 1,259  Pumping fees 1,424 1,350 2,415 2,294  Other 34 77 95 157  Total taxes other than income $ 14,829 $ 14,419 $ 29,796 $ 29,156  

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Segment Information [Abstract]
Company's Segment Information, Continuing Operations	   Three Months Ended Three Months Ended  June 30, 2018 June 30, 2017  Regulated Other Consolidated Regulated Other Consolidated  Operating revenues $ 210,824 $ 1,036 $ 211,860 $ 201,960 $ 1,458 $ 203,418  Operations and maintenance expense 73,047 468 73,515 71,322 (1,707) 69,615  Depreciation 36,603 10 36,613 34,141 (734) 33,407  Amortization 103 46 149 145 (18) 127  Operating income 86,672 82 86,754 82,390 3,460 85,850  Interest expense, net 21,756 1,967 23,723 19,747 1,640 21,387  Allowance for funds used during construction 2,577 - 2,577 3,463 - 3,463  Income tax expense (benefit) (147) (220) (367) 5,249 320 5,569  Net income (loss) 67,877 (1,287) 66,590 59,629 1,339 60,968   Six Months Ended Six Months Ended  June 30, 2018 June 30, 2017  Regulated Other Consolidated Regulated Other Consolidated  Operating revenues $ 404,331 $ 1,876 $ 406,207 $ 388,309 $ 2,896 $ 391,205  Operations and maintenance expense 144,350 3,111 147,461 137,592 (87) 137,505  Depreciation 72,561 19 72,580 67,807 (563) 67,244  Amortization 191 88 279 354 (38) 316  Operating income (loss) 158,730 (2,639) 156,091 154,697 2,287 156,984  Interest expense, net 43,464 3,730 47,194 39,524 3,189 42,713  Allowance for funds used during construction 5,444 - 5,444 6,656 - 6,656  Income tax expense (benefit) (790) (1,708) (2,498) 9,105 (606) 8,499  Net income (loss) 121,904 (4,475) 117,429 110,525 (485) 110,040  Capital expenditures 216,614 - 216,614 208,174 298 208,472  
Company's Segment Information, Assets	  June 30, December 31,  2018 2017  Total assets:  Regulated $ 6,484,778 $ 6,236,109  Other 85,567 96,354  Consolidated $ 6,570,345 $ 6,332,463  

Revenue Recognition (Narrative)

Revenue Recognition (Narrative) (Details)	Jun. 30, 2018
Aqua Infrastructure [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	49.00%

Revenue Recognition (Schedule O

Revenue Recognition (Schedule Of Disaggregation Of Revenue) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 211,860	$ 203,418	$ 406,207	$ 391,205
Water [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	185,365		354,863
Revenue	185,365		354,863
Water [Member] | Residential [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	122,530		236,367
Water [Member] | Commercial [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	33,456		63,798
Water [Member] | Fire Protection [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	7,970		15,908
Water [Member] | Industrial [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	7,309		13,669
Water [Member] | Other Water [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	14,220		25,241
Water [Member] | Alternative Revenue Program [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	(120)		(120)
Wastewater [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	23,140		44,814
Revenue	23,140		44,814
Wastewater [Member] | Residential [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	17,583		35,115
Wastewater [Member] | Commercial [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	2,975		5,863
Wastewater [Member] | Industrial [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	498		961
Wastewater [Member] | Other Wastewater [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	1,920		2,711
Wastewater [Member] | Alternative Revenue Program [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	164		164
Other [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	2,319		4,654
Revenue	3,355		6,530
Other [Member] | Other And Eliminations [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,036		1,876
Other [Member] | Other Utility [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Regulated segment	$ 2,319		$ 4,654

Goodwill (Details)

Goodwill (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance	$ 42,230
Goodwill acquired	25
Reclassification to utility plant acquisition adjustment	(25)
Other	(180)
Balance	42,050
Regulated [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance	37,389
Goodwill acquired	25
Reclassification to utility plant acquisition adjustment	(25)
Other	(180)
Balance	37,209
Other [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance	4,841
Goodwill acquired
Reclassification to utility plant acquisition adjustment
Other
Balance	$ 4,841

Acquisitions (Details)

Acquisitions (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2018USD ($)customeritem	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)customeritem	Dec. 31, 2019customerstate	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)customer
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 42,050		$ 42,230
Water And Wastewater Utility Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of acquisitions | item		3
Number of customers | customer		448		1,003
Total purchase price		$ 190		$ 5,860
Goodwill				$ 72
Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Water And Wastewater Utility Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of customers | customer			16,750
Number of states company operates in | state			2
Subsequent Event [Member] | Water And Wastewater Utility Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of acquisitions | item	7
Total purchase price	$ 152,800
Subsequent Event [Member] | Illinois [Member] | Water And Wastewater Utility Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of customers | customer	3,800
Total purchase price	$ 25,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | Pennsylvania [Member] | Water And Wastewater Utility Systems [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of customers | customer	5,400
Total purchase price	$ 75,100
Subsequent Event [Member] | Pennsylvania [Member] | Wastewater Utility System [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of customers | customer	10,500
Total purchase price	$ 50,250

Assets Held For Sale (Details)

Assets Held For Sale (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017customer
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Number of customers	265

Capitalization (Details)

Capitalization (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018
Facility Due In February 2021 [Member] | Unsecured Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity		Feb. 28, 2021
Borrowing capacity		$ 250,000,000
Facility Due In June 2023 [Member] | Unsecured Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity		Jun. 1, 2023
Borrowing capacity		$ 500,000,000
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc [Member] | First Mortgage Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Amount		$ 100,000,000
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc [Member] | First Mortgage Bonds Due In 2042 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity		Dec. 31, 2042
Face Amount		$ 25,000,000
Interest Rate		3.99%
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc [Member] | First Mortgage Bonds Due In 2045 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity		Dec. 31, 2045
Face Amount		$ 10,000,000
Interest Rate		4.04%
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc [Member] | First Mortgage Bonds Due In 2048 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity		Dec. 31, 2048
Face Amount		$ 65,000,000
Interest Rate		4.09%
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc [Member] | Tax-Exempt Bond [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt redeemed	$ 49,660,000
Redemption percentage	5.25%
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc [Member] | Tax-Exempt Bond [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Bonds Due 2042 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Original maturity	2,042
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc [Member] | Tax-Exempt Bond [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Bonds Due 2043 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Original maturity	2,043

Financial Instruments (Narrativ

Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 52,948	$ 4,204
Customers' advances for construction	93,342	93,186
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Loans payable		3,650
Mutual funds	21,759	21,776
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Customers' advances for construction	$ 93,342	$ 93,186

Financial Instruments (Summary

Financial Instruments (Summary Of Unrealized Gain And Losses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018
Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Net gain (loss) recognized during the period on equity securities	$ 19	$ (2)
Less: net gain / loss recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period
Unrealized gain (loss) recognized during the reporting period on equity securities still held at the reporting date	$ 19	$ (2)

Financial Instruments (Schedule

Financial Instruments (Schedule Of Carrying Amounts And Estimated Fair Values Of Long-Term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 2,320,903	$ 2,143,127
Estimated Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 2,322,759	$ 2,262,785

Net Income Per Common Share (Na

Net Income Per Common Share (Narrative) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018shares
Net Income Per Common Share [Abstract]
Employee stock options excluded from calculations of diluted net income per share	159,244

Net Income Per Common Share (Sc

Net Income Per Common Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details) - shares	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Net Income Per Common Share [Abstract]
Average common shares outstanding during the period for basic computation	177,901,000	177,609,000	177,852,000	177,545,000
Dilutive effect of employee stock-based compensation	372,000	436,000	447,000	497,000
Average common shares outstanding during the period for diluted computation	178,273,000	178,045,000	178,299,000	178,042,000

Stock-Based Compensation (Narra

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) - $ / shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
2004 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized for issuance	0
2009 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized for issuance	6,250,000
Maximum number of shares may be issued pursuant to stock awards, stock units and other stock-based awards	3,125,000
Maximum number of shares subject to grants to any one individual in any one year	500,000
Underlying stock option and restricted stock awards available for grant	3,413,103
Performance Share Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period, in years	3 years
Weighted average fair value of stock awards granted	$ 37.65	$ 30.79
Amortization period of fair value of shares, in months	36 months
Performance Share Units [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of target award amount the grantee may earn	0.00%
Performance Share Units [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of target award amount the grantee may earn	200.00%
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted period	3 years
Weighted average fair value of stock awards granted	$ 34.91	30.37
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period, start, in years	1 year
Vesting period, in years	10 years
Stock Options [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage	33.00%
Stock Options [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage	33.00%
Stock Options [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage	33.00%
Stock Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value of stock awards granted	$ 34.58	$ 32.79

Stock-Based Compensation (Summa

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of PSU Transactions) (Details) - $ / shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted, Number of Share Units	185,639
Performance Share Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Nonvested share units at beginning of period, Number of Share Units	452,333
Granted, Number of Share Units	87,593
Performance criteria adjustment, Number of Share Units	9,505
Forfeited, Number of Share Units	(7,780)
Share units vested in prior period and issued in current period, Number of Share Units	9,400
Share units issued, Number of Share Units	(136,081)
Nonvested share units at end of period, Number of Share Units	414,970
Nonvested share units at beginning of period, Weighted Average Fair Value	$ 26.16
Granted, Weighted Average Fair Value	37.65	$ 30.79
Performance criteria adjustment, Weighted Average Fair Value	31.89
Forfeited, Weighted Average Fair Value	30.61
Stock units vested, Weighted Average Fair Value	26.54
Share units issued, Weighted Average Fair Value	31.70
Nonvested share units at end of period, Weighted Average Fair Value	$ 26.83

Stock-Based Compensation (Sum50

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of RSU Transactions) (Details) - $ / shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted, Number of Share Units	185,639
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Nonvested share units at beginning of period, Number of Share Units	116,787
Granted, Number of Share Units	54,073
Stock units vested in prior period and issued in current period, Number of Share Units	1,467
Stock units vested and issued, Number of Share Units	(42,836)
Forfeited, Number of Share Units	(322)
Nonvested share units at end of period, Number of Share Units	129,169
Nonvested share units at beginning of period, Weighted Average Fair Value	$ 29.46
Granted, Weighted Average Fair Value	34.91	$ 30.37
Stock units vested in prior period and issued in current period, Weighted Average Fair Value	31.47
Stock units vested, Weighted Average Fair Value	26.39
Forfeited, Weighted Average Fair Value	34.91
Nonvested share units at end of period, Weighted Average Fair Value	$ 32.77

Stock-Based Compensation (Sum51

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Compensation Costs) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expense	$ 154	$ 74	$ 248	$ 104
Income tax benefit	42	33	101	125
Performance Share Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expense	1,339	971	2,198	1,841
Income tax benefit	373	394	614	747
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expense	355	322	706	603
Income tax benefit	100	133	201	249
Stock Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation within operations and maintenance expense	140	131	280	262
Income tax benefit	$ 41	$ 54	$ 81	$ 109

Stock-Based Compensation (Assum

Stock-Based Compensation (Assumptions Used In The Pricing Model) (Details) - Stock Options [Member] - $ / shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected term (years)	5 years 5 months 16 days	5 years 5 months 12 days
Risk-free interest rate	2.72%	2.01%
Expected volatility	17.20%	17.70%
Dividend yield	2.37%	2.51%
Grant date fair value per option	$ 5.10	$ 4.07

Stock-Based Compensation (Sum53

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock Option Transactions) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Exercised, Shares	(63,099)
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding at beginning of period, Shares	364,932
Granted, Shares	160,859
Forfeited, Shares	(4,489)
Expired / Canelled, Shares	(107)
Exercised, Shares	(63,099)
Outstanding at end of period, Shares	458,096
Exercisable at end of period, Shares	225,117
Outstanding at beginning of period, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 19.83
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	34.51
Forfeited, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	31.92
Expired / Canelled, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	30.47
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	16.14
Outstanding at end of period, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	25.37
Exercisable at end of period, Weighted Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 17.23
Outstanding at end of period, Weighted Average Remaining Life (years)	5 years 10 months 24 days
Exercisable at end of period, Weighted Average Remaining Life (years)	2 years 4 months 24 days
Outstanding at end of period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $	$ 4,494
Exercisable at end of period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $	$ 4,040

Stock-Based Compensation (Sum54

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Nonvested Share Activity) (Details) - $ / shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted, Number of Share Units	185,639
Stock Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Nonvested share units at beginning of period, Number of Share Units
Granted, Number of Share Units	8,099
Stock units vested and issued, Number of Share Units	(8,099)
Nonvested share units at end of period, Number of Share Units
Nonvested share units at beginning of period, Weighted Average Fair Value
Granted, Weighted Average Fair Value	34.58	$ 32.79
Stock units vested, Weighted Average Fair Value	34.58
Nonvested share units at end of period, Weighted Average Fair Value

Pension Plans And Other Postr55

Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details) - Pension Benefits [Member] $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash contributions made by the Company	$ 8,627
Cash contributions remainder of 2018	$ 3,857

Pension Plans And Other Postr56

Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Costs) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 812	$ 794	$ 1,625	$ 1,587
Interest cost	2,874	3,108	5,748	6,217
Expected return on plan assets	(4,553)	(4,270)	(9,106)	(8,539)
Amortization of prior service cost	132	145	264	290
Amortization of actuarial loss	1,823	2,001	3,646	4,002
Net periodic benefit cost	1,088	1,778	2,177	3,557
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	262	255	525	510
Interest cost	708	737	1,416	1,473
Expected return on plan assets	(677)	(647)	(1,353)	(1,294)
Amortization of prior service cost	(127)	(127)	(255)	(254)
Amortization of actuarial loss	296	291	591	583
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 462	$ 509	$ 924	$ 1,018

Water And Wastewater Rates (Det

Water And Wastewater Rates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Water And Wastewater Rates [Line Items]
Corporate federal income tax rate	21.00%	35.00%
Illinois And Ohio [Member]
Water And Wastewater Rates [Line Items]
Base rate increase (decrease)	$ 8,640
Pennsylvania, North Carolina, And New Jersey [Member]
Water And Wastewater Rates [Line Items]
Infrastructure rehabilitation surcharges	19,343
Texas, New Jersey, Ohio, And Indiana [Member]
Water And Wastewater Rates [Line Items]
Base rate increase (decrease)	(7,959)
Virginia [Member] | Revenue Subject to Refund [Member]
Water And Wastewater Rates [Line Items]
Billed revenue	$ 183

Taxes Other Than Income Taxes58

Taxes Other Than Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Taxes Other Than Income [Line Items]
Total taxes other than income	$ 14,829	$ 14,419	$ 29,796	$ 29,156
Property [Member]
Taxes Other Than Income [Line Items]
Total taxes other than income	6,775	6,867	13,524	13,652
Gross Receipts, Excise And Franchise [Member]
Taxes Other Than Income [Line Items]
Total taxes other than income	3,789	3,363	7,053	6,538
Payroll [Member]
Taxes Other Than Income [Line Items]
Total taxes other than income	2,180	2,132	5,455	5,256
Regulatory Assessments [Member]
Taxes Other Than Income [Line Items]
Total taxes other than income	627	630	1,254	1,259
Pumping Fees [Member]
Taxes Other Than Income [Line Items]
Total taxes other than income	1,424	1,350	2,415	2,294
Other [Member]
Taxes Other Than Income [Line Items]
Total taxes other than income	$ 34	$ 77	$ 95	$ 157

Segment Information (Narrative)

Segment Information (Narrative) (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Segments	10
Reportable Segments	1
Reportable Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Segments	8
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Segments	2

Segment Information (Company's

Segment Information (Company's Segment Information, Continuing Operations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues	$ 211,860	$ 203,418	$ 406,207	$ 391,205
Operations and maintenance expense	73,515	69,615	147,461	137,505
Depreciation	36,613	33,407	72,580	67,244
Amortization	149	127	279	316
Operating income (loss)	86,754	85,850	156,091	156,984
Interest expense, net	23,723	21,387	47,194	42,713
Allowance for funds used during construction	2,577	3,463	5,444	6,656
Income tax expense (benefit)	(367)	5,569	(2,498)	8,499
Net income (loss)	66,590	60,968	117,429	110,040
Capital expenditures			216,614	208,472
Regulated [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues	210,824	201,960	404,331	388,309
Operations and maintenance expense	73,047	71,322	144,350	137,592
Depreciation	36,603	34,141	72,561	67,807
Amortization	103	145	191	354
Operating income (loss)	86,672	82,390	158,730	154,697
Interest expense, net	21,756	19,747	43,464	39,524
Allowance for funds used during construction	2,577	3,463	5,444	6,656
Income tax expense (benefit)	(147)	5,249	(790)	9,105
Net income (loss)	67,877	59,629	121,904	110,525
Capital expenditures			216,614	208,174
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues	1,036	1,458	1,876	2,896
Operations and maintenance expense	468	(1,707)	3,111	(87)
Depreciation	10	(734)	19	(563)
Amortization	46	(18)	88	(38)
Operating income (loss)	82	3,460	(2,639)	2,287
Interest expense, net	1,967	1,640	3,730	3,189
Allowance for funds used during construction
Income tax expense (benefit)	(220)	320	(1,708)	(606)
Net income (loss)	$ (1,287)	$ 1,339	(4,475)	(485)
Capital expenditures				$ 298

Segment Information (Company'61

Segment Information (Company's Segment Information, Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 6,570,345	$ 6,332,463
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	85,567	96,354
Regulated [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 6,484,778	$ 6,236,109

Commitments And Contingencies (

Commitments And Contingencies (Details) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]
Aggregate amount accrued for loss contingencies	$ 18,602
Amount probable of recovery through insurance	6,541
Insurance reserve for employee medical benefit program	$ 1,451

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)segment	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits	$ 18,986,000		$ 18,986,000		$ 17,583,000
Effective income tax rate	(0.60%)	8.40%	(2.20%)	7.20%
Corporate federal income tax rate			21.00%		35.00%
Decrease in deferred income tax liability					$ 303,320,000
Deferred tax reserve	$ 1,251,000		$ 1,251,000			$ 2,532,000
Operating Segments | segment			10
Federal [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Change in operating loss carryforward			$ (26,393,000)
Operating loss carryforwards	36,909,000		36,909,000
Operating loss carryforwards, valuation allowance	0		0
Unrecognized tax benefits	64,914,000		64,914,000
Deferred tax assets, operating loss carryforwards	101,823,000		101,823,000
State [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Change in operating loss carryforward			15,835,000
Operating loss carryforwards	642,923,000		642,923,000
Unrecognized tax benefits	85,550,000		85,550,000
Deferred tax assets, operating loss carryforwards	728,473,000		$ 728,473,000
Minimum [Member] | State [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards, expiration dates			Jan. 1, 2023
Maximum [Member] | Federal [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards, expiration dates			Jan. 1, 2032
Pennsylvania [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	$ 25,569,000		$ 25,569,000
Deferred income tax liabilities					175,108,000
Ohio [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Deferred income tax liabilities					$ 9,419,000
Operating Segments | segment			2

Recent Accounting Pronounceme64

Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Jan. 31, 2018
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjustment to retained earnings, after tax			$ 860
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Reclassification	$ 1,238	$ 2,478