State Sen. Ryan Fazio says now that state regulatory authorities have denied the sale of Aquarion to the regional water authority, other buyers will likely be interested in the company.

Fazio said the rejection was due to concerns about potential higher water rates for customers and other considerations.

Fazio, a Republican candidate for governor, called Aquarion a well-run and respected company and said PURA and state leaders must carefully track any future sale to protect water utility customers in western Connecticut.