Recognition highlights DC Water’s commitment to environmental stewardship during Earth Month

DC Water has been honored with the “Green Bond of the Year – US Muni Bond” award by Environmental Finance, a leading industry publication. This achievement celebrates DC Water’s leadership in sustainability and its dedication to responsible municipal financing. The recognition comes during Earth Month, emphasizing DC Water’s contribution to transforming how cities fund vital green infrastructure projects. The award highlights DC Water’s ongoing commitment to investing in clean water initiatives that protect both the environment and public health.

DC Water’s green bonds exclusively finance and refinance the DC Clean Rivers Project, a comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing combined stormwater and sewer overflows, improving climate resilience, and enhancing water quality. 

Investments in this program include the Potomac River Tunnel which will capture and divert combined overflows, reducing the volume entering the river by 93%, and the number of events from 74 times a year to just four. Once complete in 2030, along with the Piney Branch Tunnel and green infrastructure, the combined projects will improve water quality, protect public health and the environment, and reduce pollution in the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay—the largest estuary in the United States.

“Our green bonds are more than just a financial tool—they’re a promise to our community and our planet,” said David L. Gadis, CEO of DC Water. “We’re proud that each bond supports the Clean Rivers Project and helps ensure a healthier, more resilient future for everyone. This recognition affirms the hard work of our team and the trust our investors place in us.”

Environmental Finance, a leading publication in sustainable finance, presents these awards to organizations that set global standards for environmental leadership, robust reporting, and transparent use of proceeds. The international scope of the award underscores DC Water’s achievements and its role as a standard bearer for utilities worldwide.

Since the inaugural offering in 2014, DC Water has issued more than $1 billion in green bonds, all certified by an authorized Second Party Opinion to guarantee the highest standards of environmental impact and investor confidence. DC Water previously received the Bond Buyer Northeast Regional Deal for the Year Award in 2014 for its 100 Year Century Bonds and the Government Finance Officers Association Award for Environmental Impact Bond in 2016.

The award is a testament to DC Water’s strong financial stewardship and continued commitment to prudent fiscal management. For ten consecutive years, the Authority has maintained a “AAA” credit rating from S&P Global Ratings and this year, all three major rating agencies—S&P, Moody’s, and Fitch—reaffirmed its high credit standing.

DC Water’s solid financial position, innovative use of green bonds, and forward-thinking financing ensure we can maintain reliable, sustainable service and keep rates affordable for customers.

For more on DC Water’s Innovative Finance and its green bond program, visit dcwater.com/finance.