<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<!--XBRL document created by Certent Disclosure Management 6.37.1.2 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 5/8/2020 3:59:40 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 5/8/2020 3:59:40 PM-->
<linkbase xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperationsAndComprehensiveIncome" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperationsAndComprehensiveIncome"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalization" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalization"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquity" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquity"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlow" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlow"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognition" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognition"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitions" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitions"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureGoodwill" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwill"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAssetsHeldForSale" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAssetsHeldForSale"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureCapitalization" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCapitalization"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreements" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreements"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstruments" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstruments"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShare" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShare"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefits" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefits"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureRateActivity" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRateActivity"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxes"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureSubsequesntEvents" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSubsequesntEvents"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognitionTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureGoodwillTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognitionNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognitionScheduleOfDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionScheduleOfDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsScheduleOfPurchasePriceAllocationDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsScheduleOfPurchasePriceAllocationDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsPreliminaryPurchasePriceAllocationDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsPreliminaryPurchasePriceAllocationDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsProFormaSummaryDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsProFormaSummaryDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureGoodwillNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureGoodwillScheduleOfGoodwillDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillScheduleOfGoodwillDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureAssetsHeldForSaleDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAssetsHeldForSaleDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureCapitalizationDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCapitalizationDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsSummaryOfAmountsRecognizedInEarningsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsSummaryOfAmountsRecognizedInEarningsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfUnrealizedGainAndLossesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfUnrealizedGainAndLossesDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsScheduleOfCarryingAmountsAndEstimatedFairValuesOfLongTermDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsScheduleOfCarryingAmountsAndEstimatedFairValuesOfLongTermDebtDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfPsuTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfPsuTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRsuTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRsuTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfCompensationCostsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfCompensationCostsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAssumptionsUsedInPricingModelDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAssumptionsUsedInPricingModelDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfStockOptionTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfStockOptionTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfNonvestedShareActivityDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfNonvestedShareActivityDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRestrictedStockTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRestrictedStockTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsComponentsOfNetPeriodicBenefitCostsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsComponentsOfNetPeriodicBenefitCostsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureRateActivityDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRateActivityDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationContinuingOperationsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationContinuingOperationsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationAssetsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#DisclosureSubsequesntEventsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSubsequesntEventsDetails"></roleRef>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00090 - Document - Document And Entity Information">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:label="dei_CoverAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778164101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778164101" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637245503778164101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778164101" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637245503778164101" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637245503778164101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_637245503778164101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637245503778164101" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember_637245503778164101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637245503778164101" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember_637245503778164101" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TangibleEquityUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_TangibleEquityUnitsMember_637245503778164101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_637245503778164101" xlink:to="wtrg_TangibleEquityUnitsMember_637245503778164101" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778164101" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType_637245503778174253" order="1" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_637245503778174253" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_637245503778174253" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_637245503778174253" order="4" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_637245503778174253" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_637245503778174253" order="6" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityFileNumber_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityFileNumber_637245503778174253" order="7" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName_637245503778174253" order="8" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_637245503778174253" order="9" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_637245503778174253" order="10" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_637245503778174253" order="11" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_637245503778174253" order="12" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_637245503778174253" order="13" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_637245503778174253" order="14" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:label="dei_CityAreaCode_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_CityAreaCode_637245503778174253" order="15" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:label="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_637245503778174253" order="16" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:label="dei_Security12bTitle_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_Security12bTitle_637245503778174253" order="17" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol_637245503778174253" order="18" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:label="dei_SecurityExchangeName_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_SecurityExchangeName_637245503778174253" order="19" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_637245503778174253" order="20" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:label="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_637245503778174253" order="21" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory_637245503778174253" order="22" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_637245503778174253" order="23" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_637245503778174253"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_637245503778174253" order="24" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany_637245503778184241" order="25" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_637245503778184241" order="26" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag_637245503778184241" order="27" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_637245503778184241" order="28" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2019/dei-2019-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778164101" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_637245503778184241" order="29" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00100 - Statement - Consolidated Balance Sheets">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_633942622186382176"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_633942622186382176" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_637245503778184241" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637245503778184241" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637245503778184241" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637245503778184241" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_637245503778184241" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnbilledReceivablesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnbilledReceivablesCurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnbilledReceivablesCurrent_637245503778184241" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterialsAndSupplies" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterialsAndSupplies_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterialsAndSupplies_637245503778184241" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EnergyRelatedInventoryNaturalGasInStorage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EnergyRelatedInventoryNaturalGasInStorage_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_EnergyRelatedInventoryNaturalGasInStorage_637245503778184241" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637245503778184241" order="6" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsCurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsCurrent_637245503778184241" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupCurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupCurrent_637245503778184241" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_637245503778184241" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsNoncurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsNoncurrent_637245503778184241" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssets_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssets_637245503778184241" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentsInAffiliatesSubsidiariesAssociatesAndJointVentures" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentsInAffiliatesSubsidiariesAssociatesAndJointVentures_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentsInAffiliatesSubsidiariesAssociatesAndJointVentures_637245503778184241" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent_637245503778184241"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent_637245503778184241" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778194186" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_637245503778194186" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637245503778184241" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_637245503778194186" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_633942622186382176" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637245503778194186" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637245503778194186" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637245503778194186" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637245503778194186" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637245503778194186" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637245503778194186" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637245503778194186" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637245503778194186" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_637245503778194186" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" order="6" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637245503778194186" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LoansPayableCurrentNotIncludedInCurrentPortionOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_LoansPayableCurrentNotIncludedInCurrentPortionOfLongTermDebt_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="wtrg_LoansPayableCurrentNotIncludedInCurrentPortionOfLongTermDebt_637245503778194186" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_637245503778194186" order="3" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BankOverdrafts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BankOverdrafts_637245503778194186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_BankOverdrafts_637245503778194186" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_637245503778204197" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent_637245503778204197" order="6" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityCurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityCurrent_637245503778204197" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_637245503778204197" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_637245503778204197" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" order="7" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_637245503778204197" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent_637245503778204197" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778204197" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_637245503778204197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_637245503778204197" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LiabilitiesNoncurrentLessLongTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_LiabilitiesNoncurrentLessLongTermDebt_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637245503778204197" xlink:to="wtrg_LiabilitiesNoncurrentLessLongTermDebt_637245503778214109" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContributionsInAidOfConstruction" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637245503778214109" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778194186" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_637245503778214109" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00105 - Statement - Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778214109" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637245503778214109" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_637245503778214109" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares_637245503778214109" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperationsAndComprehensiveIncome" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00200 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Operations And Comprehensive Income">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778214109" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637245503778214109" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637245503778214109" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Depreciation" xlink:label="us-gaap_Depreciation_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_Depreciation_637245503778214109" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortization_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortization_637245503778214109" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637245503778214109" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses_637245503778214109" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637245503778214109" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense_637245503778214109" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating_637245503778214109" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637245503778214109" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsNetPretax" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsNetPretax_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsNetPretax_637245503778214109" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_637245503778214109"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_637245503778214109" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossJointVenturePartnersNonredeemable_637245503778224050" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_637245503778224050" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments_637245503778224050" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637245503778214109" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637245503778224050" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778224050" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax_637245503778224050" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637245503778224050" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637245503778224050" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_637245503778224050" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637245503778224050" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_637245503778224050" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_637245503778224050" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_637245503778224050" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_637245503778224050" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_637245503778224050" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_637245503778224050" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="6"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalization" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00400 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Capitalization">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778224050" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778224050" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778224050" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778224050" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778224050" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778224050" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778224050"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778224050" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778244012" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637245503778244012" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BankNoteMember" xlink:label="wtrg_BankNoteMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_BankNoteMember_637245503778244012" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637245503778244012" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesRangesBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesRangesBMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesRangesBMember_637245503778244012" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesZMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesZMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesZMember_637245503778244012" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesRangesCMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesRangesCMember_637245503778244012"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778224050" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesRangesCMember_637245503778244012" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778224050" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778253977" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778253977" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637245503778253977" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637245503778253977" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637245503778253977" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637245503778253977" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637245503778253977" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuredDebt_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuredDebt_637245503778253977" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotesPayableToBank" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBank_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBank_637245503778253977" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt_637245503778253977" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_637245503778253977" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637245503778253977" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637245503778253977" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637245503778253977" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637245503778253977" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquity_637245503778253977"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637245503778253977" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquity_637245503778253977" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00405 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Capitalization (Parenthetical)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778263966" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778263966" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778263966" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778263966" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637245503778263966" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637245503778263966" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637245503778263966" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637245503778263966" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637245503778263966" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778263966" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778263966" order="2" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778263966" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637245503778263966" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637245503778263966" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BankNoteCMember" xlink:label="wtrg_BankNoteCMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_BankNoteCMember_637245503778263966" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637245503778263966" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesBMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesBMember_637245503778263966" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesCMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesCMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesCMember_637245503778263966" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesZMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesZMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesZMember_637245503778263966" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesFMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesFMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesFMember_637245503778263966" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesGMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesGMember_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesGMember_637245503778263966" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778263966"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778263966" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778263966" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778263966" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778273920" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778263966" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637245503778273920" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778263966" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637245503778273920" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquity" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00500 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Equity">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract_634155893184644604"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract_634155893184644604" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778273920" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ParentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentMember_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentMember_637245503778273920" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_637245503778273920" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_637245503778273920" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_637245503778273920" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember_637245503778273920" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_637245503778273920" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637245503778273920" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778273920" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash_637245503778273920" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues_637245503778273920" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValuePurchaseOfAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValuePurchaseOfAssets_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValuePurchaseOfAssets_637245503778273920" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan_637245503778273920" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod_637245503778273920" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation_637245503778273920" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_637245503778273920" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TreasuryStockReissuedAtLowerThanRepurchasePriceShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="wtrg_TreasuryStockReissuedAtLowerThanRepurchasePriceShareBasedCompensation_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="wtrg_TreasuryStockReissuedAtLowerThanRepurchasePriceShareBasedCompensation_637245503778273920" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther_637245503778273920"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther_637245503778273920" order="11" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_6372455037782739201"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778273920" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_6372455037782739201" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00505 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Equity (Parenthetical)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared_637245503778283898" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637245503778283898" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets_637245503778283898" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan_637245503778283898" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares_637245503778283898" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778283898" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637245503778283898" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlow" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00600 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flow">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778283898" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637245503778283898" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637245503778283898" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts_637245503778283898" order="3" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_637245503778283898" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_637245503778283898" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnInvestments_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnInvestments_637245503778283898" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesReceivablesAndPrepayments" xlink:label="wtrg_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesReceivablesAndPrepayments_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="wtrg_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesReceivablesAndPrepayments_637245503778283898" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities_637245503778283898" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPensionAndPostretirementObligations" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPensionAndPostretirementObligations_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPensionAndPostretirementObligations_637245503778283898" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_637245503778283898" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_637245503778283898" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637245503778283898" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireWasteWaterSystems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireWasteWaterSystems_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireWasteWaterSystems_637245503778283898" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ProceedsFromSaleOfUtilitySystemAndOther" xlink:label="wtrg_ProceedsFromSaleOfUtilitySystemAndOther_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="wtrg_ProceedsFromSaleOfUtilitySystemAndOther_637245503778283898" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities_637245503778283898" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_637245503778283898" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ProceedsFromAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities" xlink:label="wtrg_ProceedsFromAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637245503778283898"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="wtrg_ProceedsFromAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637245503778283898" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_RepaymentsOfAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities" xlink:label="wtrg_RepaymentsOfAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="wtrg_RepaymentsOfAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637245503778293899" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt_637245503778293899" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt_637245503778293899" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778293899" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtExtinguishmentCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtExtinguishmentCosts_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtExtinguishmentCosts_637245503778293899" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfBankOverdraftsLessShortTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfBankOverdraftsLessShortTermDebt_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="wtrg_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfBankOverdraftsLessShortTermDebt_637245503778293899" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637245503778293899" order="8" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromOtherEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromOtherEquity_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromOtherEquity_637245503778293899" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised_637245503778293899" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock_637245503778293899" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock_637245503778293899" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities_637245503778293899" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637245503778283898" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_637245503778293899" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_637245503778293899"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_637245503778293899" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637245503778303872" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6372455037783038721"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6372455037783038721" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637245503778303872" order="8" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637245503778303872" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NonCashCustomerAdvancesAndContributionsInAidOfConstruction" xlink:label="wtrg_NonCashCustomerAdvancesAndContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637245503778303872" xlink:to="wtrg_NonCashCustomerAdvancesAndContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637245503778303872" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00605 - Statement - Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flow (Parenthetical)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_635345580869903084"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtComponentOfAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstruction" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtComponentOfAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstruction_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_635345580869903084" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtComponentOfAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstruction_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10101 - Disclosure - Basis Of Presentation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognition" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10201 - Disclosure - Revenue Recognition">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitions" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10301 - Disclosure - Acquisitions">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwill" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10401 - Disclosure - Goodwill">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAssetsHeldForSale" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10501 - Disclosure - Assets Held For Sale">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCapitalization" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10601 - Disclosure - Capitalization">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_CapitalizationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="wtrg_CapitalizationDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_CapitalizationDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778303872" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreements" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10701 - Disclosure - Interest Rate Swap Agreements">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstruments" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10801 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865324897"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865324897" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShare" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="10901 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454899944708"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454899944708" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11001 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefits" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11101 - Disclosure - Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189394168"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189394168" xlink:to="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRateActivity" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11201 - Disclosure - Rate Activity">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11301 - Disclosure - Taxes Other Than Income Taxes">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTextBlock" xlink:label="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11401 - Disclosure - Segment Information">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11501 - Disclosure - Commitments And Contingencies">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11601 - Disclosure - Income Taxes">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11701 - Disclosure - Recent Accounting Pronouncements">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSubsequesntEvents" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="11801 - Disclosure - Subsequesnt Events">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_637245503778313849"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_637245503778313849" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30203 - Disclosure - Revenue Recognition (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30303 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract_637239323980304614"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract_637239323980304614" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRecognizedIdentifiedAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRecognizedIdentifiedAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedTableTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract_637239323980304614" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRecognizedIdentifiedAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedTableTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract_637239323980304614" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30403 - Disclosure - Goodwill (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30703 - Disclosure - Interest Rate Swap Agreements (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsEffectOnOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsEffectOnOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsEffectOnOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30803 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865625326"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TradingSecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradingSecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865625326" xlink:to="us-gaap_TradingSecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865625326" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30903 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_635112962791865166"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_635112962791865166" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31003 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778323815" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778323815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778323815" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778323815" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778323815" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedPerformanceBasedUnitsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedPerformanceBasedUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedPerformanceBasedUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardEmployeeStockPurchasePlanValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardEmployeeStockPurchasePlanValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock_637245503778323815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardEmployeeStockPurchasePlanValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock_637245503778323815" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778333757" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedShareActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedShareActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedShareActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778333757" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778323815" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock_637245503778333757" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31103 - Disclosure - Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189394168"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189394168" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778333757" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778333757" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778333757" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778333757" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778333757" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778333757" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778333757" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637245503778333757" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778333757" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNetBenefitCostsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNetBenefitCostsTableTextBlock_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778333757" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNetBenefitCostsTableTextBlock_637245503778333757" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31303 - Disclosure - Taxes Other Than Income Taxes (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTableTextBlock_637245503778333757"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTableTextBlock_637245503778333757" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31403 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfRevenueFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfRevenueFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfRevenueFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock_637245503778343813" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40101 - Disclosure - Basis Of Presentation (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BasisOfPresentationTable" xlink:label="wtrg_BasisOfPresentationTable_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_BasisOfPresentationTable_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_BasisOfPresentationTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778343813" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_BasisOfPresentationTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778343813" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfCustomers" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40201 - Disclosure - Revenue Recognition (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsTable_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsTable_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis_637245503778343813" xlink:to="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_AquaInfrastructureMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AquaInfrastructureMember_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_AquaInfrastructureMember_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsLineItems_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsLineItems_637245503778343813" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsLineItems_637245503778343813" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNumberOfCategories" xlink:label="wtrg_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNumberOfCategories_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentsLineItems_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerNumberOfCategories_637245503778343813" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionScheduleOfDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40202 - Disclosure - Revenue Recognition (Schedule Of Disaggregation Of Revenue) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_637245503778343813" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778343813" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WastewaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WastewaterMember_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_WastewaterMember_637245503778343813" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778343813"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778343813" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_OtherMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637245503778343813" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherMember_637245503778353678" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778353678" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778353678" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationEliminationsMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationEliminationsMember_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_637245503778353678" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_637245503778353678" xlink:to="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ResidentialMember" xlink:label="wtrg_ResidentialMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_ResidentialMember_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_CommercialMember" xlink:label="wtrg_CommercialMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_CommercialMember_637245503778353678" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_FireProtectionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FireProtectionMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_FireProtectionMember_637245503778353678" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_IndustrialMember" xlink:label="wtrg_IndustrialMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_IndustrialMember_637245503778353678" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_GasTransportationMember" xlink:label="wtrg_GasTransportationMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_GasTransportationMember_637245503778353678" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_OtherWaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherWaterMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherWaterMember_637245503778353678" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_OtherWastewaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherWastewaterMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherWastewaterMember_637245503778353678" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_AlternativeRevenueProgramMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AlternativeRevenueProgramMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_AlternativeRevenueProgramMember_637245503778353678" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_OtherUtilityMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherUtilityMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherUtilityMember_637245503778353678" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637245503778343813" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637245503778353678" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778353678" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40301 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778353678" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637245503778353678" order="2" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778353678"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637245503778353678" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778353678" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2018/stpr-2018-01-31.xsd#stpr_PA" xlink:label="stpr_PA_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="stpr_PA_637245503778363716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_CheltenhamTownshipMember" xlink:label="wtrg_CheltenhamTownshipMember_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="wtrg_CheltenhamTownshipMember_637245503778363716" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2018/stpr-2018-01-31.xsd#stpr_DE" xlink:label="stpr_DE_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="stpr_DE_637245503778363716" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2018/stpr-2018-01-31.xsd#stpr_OH" xlink:label="stpr_OH_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778353678" xlink:to="stpr_OH_637245503778363716" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778363716" order="3" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778363716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember_637245503778363716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemMember_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemMember_637245503778363716" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778363716" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778363716" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778363716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BridgeCommitmentMember" xlink:label="wtrg_BridgeCommitmentMember_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BridgeCommitmentMember_637245503778363716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778353678" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" order="5" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfBusinessesAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfBusinessesAcquired_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfBusinessesAcquired_637245503778363716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfCustomers" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637245503778363716" order="2" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfRetailCustomers" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfRetailCustomers_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfRetailCustomers_637245503778363716" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfMunicipalities" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfMunicipalities_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfMunicipalities_637245503778363716" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1_637245503778363716" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAndNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAndNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAndNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778363716" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778363716" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778363716" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationMeasurementPeriod" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationMeasurementPeriod_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationMeasurementPeriod_637245503778363716" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationLiabilitiesArisingFromContingenciesAmountRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationLiabilitiesArisingFromContingenciesAmountRecognized_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationLiabilitiesArisingFromContingenciesAmountRecognized_637245503778363716" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCosts_637245503778363716"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCosts_637245503778363716" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCostsPreTax" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCostsPreTax_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCostsPreTax_637245503778373685" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentFinancialLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentFinancialLiabilities_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentFinancialLiabilities_637245503778373685" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentFinancialLiabilitiesPreTax" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentFinancialLiabilitiesPreTax_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentFinancialLiabilitiesPreTax_637245503778373685" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentConsiderationTransferred" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentConsiderationTransferred_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentConsiderationTransferred_637245503778373685" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentConsiderationTransferredPreTax" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentConsiderationTransferredPreTax_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentConsiderationTransferredPreTax_637245503778373685" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentManagementFee" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentManagementFee_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentManagementFee_637245503778373685" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentManagementFeePreTax" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentManagementFeePreTax_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationProvisionalInformationInitialAccountingIncompleteAdjustmentManagementFeePreTax_637245503778373685" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineTerm" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineTerm_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineTerm_637245503778373685" order="19" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineCost" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineCost_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineCost_637245503778373685" order="20" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationCustomerRateCredits" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationCustomerRateCredits_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationCustomerRateCredits_637245503778373685" order="21" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637245503778373685" order="22" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778373685"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778373685" order="23" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeRemeasurementGainOrLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeRemeasurementGainOrLoss_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeRemeasurementGainOrLoss_637245503778383632" order="24" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCostExpensed" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCostExpensed_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationSeparatelyRecognizedTransactionsAdditionalDisclosuresAcquisitionCostExpensed_637245503778383632" order="25" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778383632" order="26" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778383632" order="27" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637245503778383632" order="28" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637245503778383632" order="29" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778363716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637245503778383632" order="30" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsScheduleOfPurchasePriceAllocationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40302 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Schedule Of Purchase Price Allocation) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778383632" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778383632"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778383632" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778383632" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778393616"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778383632" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778393616" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778393616"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778393616" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778393616" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778383632" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778403580" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778403580" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross_637245503778403580" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredWorkingCapital" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredWorkingCapital_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778403580" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredWorkingCapital_637245503778403580" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredCapitalExpenditures" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredCapitalExpenditures_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778403580" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredCapitalExpenditures_637245503778403580" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_AssumptionOfIndebtedness" xlink:label="wtrg_AssumptionOfIndebtedness_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778403580" xlink:to="wtrg_AssumptionOfIndebtedness_637245503778403580" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778403580" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1_637245503778403580" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsPreliminaryPurchasePriceAllocationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40303 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract_637239323980364547"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract_637239323980364547" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778403580" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778403580" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778403580" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778403580" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778403580" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778403580"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778403580" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778403580" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778403580" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637245503778413544" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssets_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssets_637245503778413544" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedRegulatoryAssets" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedRegulatoryAssets_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedRegulatoryAssets_637245503778413544" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets_637245503778413544" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778413544" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets_6372455037784135441"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets_6372455037784135441" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets_637245503778413544" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebtNet" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebtNet_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebtNet_637245503778413544" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesAccountsPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesAccountsPayable_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesAccountsPayable_637245503778413544" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesOther_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesOther_637245503778413544" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebtNet" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebtNet_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebtNet_637245503778413544" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilities_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilities_637245503778413544" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesRegulatoryLiabilities" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesRegulatoryLiabilities_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesRegulatoryLiabilities_637245503778413544" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther_637245503778413544" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilities_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilities_637245503778413544" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet_637245503778413544" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsProFormaSummaryDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40304 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Pro Forma Summary) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778413544" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778413544" order="1" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778413544" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778413544" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778413544" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue_637245503778413544" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss_637245503778413544"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637245503778413544" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss_637245503778413544" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40401 - Disclosure - Goodwill (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778423543" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillScheduleOfGoodwillDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40402 - Disclosure - Goodwill (Schedule Of Goodwill) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778423543" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778423543" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778423543" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778423543" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778423543" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778423543" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod_637245503778423543" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ReclassificationOfGoodwillAcquisitionAdjustment" xlink:label="wtrg_ReclassificationOfGoodwillAcquisitionAdjustment_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="wtrg_ReclassificationOfGoodwillAcquisitionAdjustment_637245503778423543" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_6372455037784235431"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_6372455037784235431" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAssetsHeldForSaleDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40501 - Disclosure - Assets Held For Sale (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleNotPartOfDisposalGroupAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember_637245503778423543" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_637245503778423543" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfCustomers" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637245503778423543" order="1" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationConsideration" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationConsideration_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationConsideration_637245503778423543" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposal_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposal_637245503778423543" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage_637245503778423543"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_637245503778423543" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage_637245503778423543" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCapitalizationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40601 - Disclosure - Capitalization (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778433485" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778433485" order="2" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778433485" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637245503778433485" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637245503778433485" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637245503778433485" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_637245503778433485" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_AquaPennsylvaniaIncMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AquaPennsylvaniaIncMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_AquaPennsylvaniaIncMember_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_637245503778433485" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778433485" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsMember_637245503778433485" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsBMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsBMember_637245503778433485" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsCMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsCMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsCMember_637245503778433485" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsDMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsDMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsDMember_637245503778433485" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsEMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsEMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsEMember_637245503778433485" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsFMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsFMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_FirstMortgageBondsFMember_637245503778433485" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermMember_637245503778433485" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermBMember_637245503778433485"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermBMember_637245503778433485" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermCMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermCMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermCMember_637245503778443474" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NotesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesMember_637245503778443474" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDMember_637245503778443474" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LongTermEMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermEMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637245503778433485" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermEMember_637245503778443474" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778443474" order="6" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778443474" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778443474" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_637245503778443474" order="7" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637245503778443474" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_UnsecuredCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="wtrg_UnsecuredCreditFacilityMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_UnsecuredCreditFacilityMember_637245503778443474" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_637245503778443474" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_CreditAgreementMember" xlink:label="wtrg_CreditAgreementMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_CreditAgreementMember_637245503778443474" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637245503778443474" order="8" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637245503778443474" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778443474" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DateMember" xlink:label="wtrg_DateMember_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DateMember_637245503778443474" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637245503778433485" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" order="9" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PrivatePlacement" xlink:label="wtrg_PrivatePlacement_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_PrivatePlacement_637245503778453471" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement_637245503778453471" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778453471" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfStockIssuanceCosts_637245503778453471" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637245503778453471" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PrivatePlacementDiscountPercentage" xlink:label="wtrg_PrivatePlacementDiscountPercentage_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_PrivatePlacementDiscountPercentage_637245503778453471" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleThresholdConsecutiveTradingDays1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleThresholdConsecutiveTradingDays1_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleThresholdConsecutiveTradingDays1_637245503778453471" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PaymentOfDiligenceExpenses" xlink:label="wtrg_PaymentOfDiligenceExpenses_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_PaymentOfDiligenceExpenses_637245503778453471" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettled" xlink:label="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettled_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettled_637245503778453471" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637245503778453471" order="10" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsBalance" xlink:label="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsBalance_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsBalance_637245503778453471" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleDiscountedConversionPrice" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleDiscountedConversionPrice_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleDiscountedConversionPrice_637245503778453471" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637245503778453471"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637245503778453471" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts_637245503778463407" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharePrice_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharePrice_637245503778463407" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleSettlement" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleSettlement_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleSettlement_637245503778463407" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal_637245503778463407" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleBeneficialConversionFeaturePerShare" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleBeneficialConversionFeaturePerShare_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleBeneficialConversionFeaturePerShare_637245503778463407" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallment" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallment_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallment_637245503778463407" order="19" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallmentRate" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallmentRate_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallmentRate_637245503778463407" order="20" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalConvertibleDebtWithConversionFeature_637245503778463407" order="21" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralInsuranceExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralInsuranceExpense_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralInsuranceExpense_637245503778463407" order="22" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637245503778463407"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637245503778463407" order="23" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_637245503778473405" order="24" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCredit_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCredit_637245503778473405" order="25" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LineOfCreditFacilityAdditionalBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="wtrg_LineOfCreditFacilityAdditionalBorrowingCapacity_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_LineOfCreditFacilityAdditionalBorrowingCapacity_637245503778473405" order="26" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637245503778473405" order="27" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm_637245503778473405" order="28" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYear" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYear_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYear_637245503778473405" order="29" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637245503778473405" order="30" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778473405" order="31" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_637245503778473405"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_637245503778473405" order="32" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778483312" order="33" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage_637245503778483312" order="34" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtExtinguishmentCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtExtinguishmentCosts_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtExtinguishmentCosts_637245503778483312" order="35" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts_637245503778483312" order="36" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts_637245503778483312" order="37" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues_637245503778483312" order="38" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAndNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAndNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAndNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778483312" order="39" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778483312"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778483312" order="40" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt_637245503778493284" order="41" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TransferRestrictionsTerm" xlink:label="wtrg_TransferRestrictionsTerm_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637245503778443474" xlink:to="wtrg_TransferRestrictionsTerm_637245503778493284" order="42" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40701 - Disclosure - Interest Rate Swap Agreements (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778493284" xlink:to="wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778493284" order="2" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_637245503778493284" order="3" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_637245503778493284" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAssetAtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAssetAtFairValue_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentsAssetAtFairValue_637245503778493284" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637245503778493284" order="2" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778493284"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637245503778493284" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfDerivatives" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfDerivatives_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_637245503778493284" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfDerivatives_637245503778503339" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureInterestRateSwapAgreementsSummaryOfAmountsRecognizedInEarningsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40703 - Disclosure - Interest Rate Swap Agreements (Summary Of Amounts Recognized In Earnings) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NondesignatedMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_NondesignatedMember_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_637245503778503339" order="2" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_637245503778503339" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherOperatingIncomeExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherOperatingIncomeExpenseMember_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherOperatingIncomeExpenseMember_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis_637245503778503339" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueHedgingMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueHedgingMember_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueHedgingMember_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipByIncomeStatementLocationByDerivativeInstrumentRiskTable_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems_637245503778503339" order="5" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeGainLossOnDerivativeNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeGainLossOnDerivativeNet_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItems_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeGainLossOnDerivativeNet_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40801 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778503339" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansPayableFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansPayableFairValueDisclosure_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansPayableFairValueDisclosure_637245503778503339" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure_637245503778503339" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637245503778503339" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778503339"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778503339" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637245503778503339" order="4" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfUnrealizedGainAndLossesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40802 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Summary Of Unrealized Gain And Losses) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiGainLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiGainLoss_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiGainLoss_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiRealizedGainLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiRealizedGainLoss_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiRealizedGainLoss_637245503778513343" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiUnrealizedGainLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiUnrealizedGainLoss_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiUnrealizedGainLoss_637245503778513343" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsScheduleOfCarryingAmountsAndEstimatedFairValuesOfLongTermDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40803 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Schedule Of Carrying Amounts And Estimated Fair Values Of Long-Term Debt) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865825612"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865825612" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637245503778513343" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778513343" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40901 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_635112962791885168"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDilutedByCommonClassTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDilutedByCommonClassTable_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_635112962791885168" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDilutedByCommonClassTable_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDilutedByCommonClassTable_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedLineItems_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDilutedByCommonClassTable_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedLineItems_637245503778513343" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasicStockPurchaseContracts" xlink:label="wtrg_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasicStockPurchaseContracts_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedLineItems_637245503778513343" xlink:to="wtrg_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasicStockPurchaseContracts_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfSharestoBeIssuedBasicStockPurchaseContracts" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfSharestoBeIssuedBasicStockPurchaseContracts_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedLineItems_637245503778513343" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfSharestoBeIssuedBasicStockPurchaseContracts_637245503778513343" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedLineItems_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_637245503778513343" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_StockPurchaseContractThreshold" xlink:label="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractThreshold_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedLineItems_637245503778513343" xlink:to="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractThreshold_637245503778513343" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40902 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454901346724"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454901346724" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454901346724" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637245503778513343" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityUnitPurchaseAgreements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityUnitPurchaseAgreements_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityUnitPurchaseAgreements_637245503778513343" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityForwardAgreements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityForwardAgreements_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityForwardAgreements_637245503778513343" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637245503778513343" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_637245503778513343" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_637245503778513343"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454901346724" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_637245503778513343" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41001 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026628570"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026628570" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778523244" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778523244" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778523244" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778523244" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778523244" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778523244" order="2" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637245503778523244" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637245503778523244" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637245503778523244" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637245503778523244" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637245503778523244" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TwoThousandAndFourOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="wtrg_TwoThousandAndFourOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="wtrg_TwoThousandAndFourOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TwoThousandNineOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="wtrg_TwoThousandNineOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="wtrg_TwoThousandNineOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember_637245503778523244" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VestingAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingAxis_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingAxis_637245503778523244" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingAxis_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember_637245503778523244" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheThreeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheThreeMember_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheThreeMember_637245503778523244" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized_637245503778523244" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_MaximumNumberOfSharesMayBeIssuedPursuantToStockAwardsStockUnitsAndOtherStockBasedAwards" xlink:label="wtrg_MaximumNumberOfSharesMayBeIssuedPursuantToStockAwardsStockUnitsAndOtherStockBasedAwards_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="wtrg_MaximumNumberOfSharesMayBeIssuedPursuantToStockAwardsStockUnitsAndOtherStockBasedAwards_637245503778523244" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee_637245503778523244" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant_637245503778523244" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637245503778523244" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_637245503778523244"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_637245503778523244" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1_637245503778533257" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_637245503778533257" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_RestrictedStockUnitsRestrictedPeriod" xlink:label="wtrg_RestrictedStockUnitsRestrictedPeriod_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="wtrg_RestrictedStockUnitsRestrictedPeriod_637245503778533257" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PercentageOfTargetAwardAmountParticipantMayEarn" xlink:label="wtrg_PercentageOfTargetAwardAmountParticipantMayEarn_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="wtrg_PercentageOfTargetAwardAmountParticipantMayEarn_637245503778533257" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778533257" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778533257" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778533257" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAmortizationPeriodOfFairValueOfShares" xlink:label="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAmortizationPeriodOfFairValueOfShares_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778523244" xlink:to="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAmortizationPeriodOfFairValueOfShares_637245503778533257" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfPsuTransactionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41002 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of PSU Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026828856"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026828856" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778533257" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778533257" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778533257" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778533257" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778533257" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778533257" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778533257" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsPerformanceCriteriaAdjustment" xlink:label="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsPerformanceCriteriaAdjustment_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsPerformanceCriteriaAdjustment_637245503778533257" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637245503778533257" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778533257" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod_637245503778533257" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037785332571"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037785332571" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778533257"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778533257" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsPerformanceCriteriaAdjustmentWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsPerformanceCriteriaAdjustmentWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsPerformanceCriteriaAdjustmentWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778533257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRsuTransactionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41003 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of RSU Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026928999"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026928999" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778543186" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778543186" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778543186" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778543186" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778543186" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778543186" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778543186" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637245503778543186" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037785431861"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037785431861" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778543186" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6372455037785431861"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778543186" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6372455037785431861" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfCompensationCostsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41004 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Compensation Costs) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026928999"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778553256"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026928999" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778553256" order="1" use="optional" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778553256"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778553256" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778553256" order="1" use="optional" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778553256"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778553256" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778553256" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778553256"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778553256" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778553256" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778553256"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778553256" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637245503778553256" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778553256"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778553256" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637245503778553256" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778553256"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778553256" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778553256" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778553256" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778572843" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778553256" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense_637245503778572843" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense_637245503778572843" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAssumptionsUsedInPricingModelDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41005 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Assumptions Used In The Pricing Model) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778572843" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778572843" order="1" use="optional" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778572843" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778572843" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_637245503778572843" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate_637245503778572843" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate_637245503778572843" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate_637245503778572843" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsGrantDateFairValue_637245503778572843"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778572843" xlink:to="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsGrantDateFairValue_637245503778572843" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfStockOptionTransactionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41006 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock Option Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882027229428"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882027229428" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778583036" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778583036" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637245503778583036" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637245503778583036" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637245503778583036" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod_637245503778583036" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637245503778583036" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_6372455037785830361"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_6372455037785830361" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber_637245503778583036" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_6372455037785830361"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_6372455037785830361" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637245503778583036" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_637245503778583036" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_637245503778583036" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="8"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_637245503778583036" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="8"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1_637245503778583036" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfNonvestedShareActivityDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41007 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Nonvested Share Activity) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882027429714"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882027429714" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778583036"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778583036" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778593023" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778593023" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637245503778593023" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778583036" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778593023" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778593023" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778593023" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637245503778593023" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037785930231"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037785930231" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778593023" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6372455037785930231"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6372455037785930231" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRestrictedStockTransactionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41009 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Restricted Stock Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_637239458698025027"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_637239458698025027" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778593023" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778593023" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778593023" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778593023"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637245503778593023" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637245503778593023" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637245503778622895" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637245503778622895" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037786228951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6372455037786228951" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778622895" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778622895" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637245503778622895" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6372455037786228951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6372455037786228951" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41101 - Disclosure - Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778622895" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureEmployerContributionsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureEmployerContributionsRemainderOfFiscalYear_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureEmployerContributionsRemainderOfFiscalYear_637245503778622895" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsComponentsOfNetPeriodicBenefitCostsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41102 - Disclosure - Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Costs) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189894888"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189894888" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778622895" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637245503778622895" order="2" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637245503778622895" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637245503778622895"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637245503778622895" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637245503778622895" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost_637245503778632859" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets_637245503778632859" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit_637245503778632859" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfActuarialLoss" xlink:label="wtrg_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfActuarialLoss_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfActuarialLoss_637245503778632859" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost_637245503778632859" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRateActivityDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41201 - Disclosure - Rate Activity (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637245503778632859" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637245503778632859" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_IndianaAndOhioMember" xlink:label="wtrg_IndianaAndOhioMember_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_IndianaAndOhioMember_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_IllinoisAndNorthCarolinaMember" xlink:label="wtrg_IllinoisAndNorthCarolinaMember_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_IllinoisAndNorthCarolinaMember_637245503778632859" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2018/stpr-2018-01-31.xsd#stpr_PA" xlink:label="stpr_PA_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="stpr_PA_637245503778632859" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637245503778632859" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesApprovedRateIncreaseDecreaseAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesApprovedRateIncreaseDecreaseAmount_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesApprovedRateIncreaseDecreaseAmount_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BaseRateIncreaseDesignedToIncreaseTotalOperatingRevenuesOnAnnualBasis" xlink:label="wtrg_BaseRateIncreaseDesignedToIncreaseTotalOperatingRevenuesOnAnnualBasis_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_BaseRateIncreaseDesignedToIncreaseTotalOperatingRevenuesOnAnnualBasis_637245503778632859" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_IncreaseInWaterAndWasterRates" xlink:label="wtrg_IncreaseInWaterAndWasterRates_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_IncreaseInWaterAndWasterRates_637245503778632859" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_DistributionSystemImprovementChargesResetLevelUponNewBaseRates" xlink:label="wtrg_DistributionSystemImprovementChargesResetLevelUponNewBaseRates_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_DistributionSystemImprovementChargesResetLevelUponNewBaseRates_637245503778632859" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41301 - Disclosure - Taxes Other Than Income Taxes (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637245503778632859" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637245503778632859" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PropertyMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PropertyMember_637245503778632859"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_PropertyMember_637245503778632859" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_GrossReceiptsExciseAndFranchiseMember" xlink:label="wtrg_GrossReceiptsExciseAndFranchiseMember_637245503778642828"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_GrossReceiptsExciseAndFranchiseMember_637245503778642828" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PayrollMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PayrollMember_637245503778642828"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_PayrollMember_637245503778642828" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_RegulatoryAssessmentsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_RegulatoryAssessmentsMember_637245503778642828"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_RegulatoryAssessmentsMember_637245503778642828" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PumpingFeesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PumpingFeesMember_637245503778642828"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_PumpingFeesMember_637245503778642828" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_OtherTaxesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherTaxesMember_637245503778642828"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherTaxesMember_637245503778642828" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems_637245503778642828"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637245503778632859" xlink:to="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems_637245503778642828" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637245503778642828"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems_637245503778642828" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637245503778642828" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41401 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReportableSubsegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportableSubsegmentsMember_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportableSubsegmentsMember_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778672744" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_637245503778672744" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationContinuingOperationsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41402 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Company&apos;s Segment Information, Continuing Operations) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778672744" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778672744" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778672744" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778672744" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues_637245503778672744" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637245503778672744"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637245503778672744" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637245503778682473" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_637245503778682473" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637245503778682473" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637245503778682473" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_InterestExpenseNetOfAfudc" xlink:label="wtrg_InterestExpenseNetOfAfudc_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="wtrg_InterestExpenseNetOfAfudc_637245503778682473" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating_637245503778682473" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637245503778682473" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeRemeasurementGainOrLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeRemeasurementGainOrLoss_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeRemeasurementGainOrLoss_637245503778682473" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments_637245503778682473" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637245503778682473" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637245503778682473" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778672744" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637245503778682473" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41403 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Company&apos;s Segment Information, Assets) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778682473" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778682473"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778682473" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778682473" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2019/elts/srt-2019-01-31.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637245503778682473" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778682473" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778692453" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778692453" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778692453" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637245503778692453" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637245503778692453" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637245503778682473" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778692453" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41501 - Disclosure - Commitments And Contingencies (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable" xlink:label="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637245503778692453" xlink:to="wtrg_PeoplesGasAcquisitionMember_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems" xlink:label="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_637245503778692453" xlink:to="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyEstimateOfPossibleLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyEstimateOfPossibleLoss_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyEstimateOfPossibleLoss_637245503778692453" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EstimatedInsuranceRecoveries" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimatedInsuranceRecoveries_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimatedInsuranceRecoveries_637245503778692453" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve" xlink:label="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453" xlink:to="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve_637245503778692453" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineTerm" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineTerm_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineTerm_637245503778692453" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineCost" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineCost_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationPipelineCost_637245503778692453" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_BusinessCombinationCustomerRateCredits" xlink:label="wtrg_BusinessCombinationCustomerRateCredits_637245503778692453"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_637245503778692453" xlink:to="wtrg_BusinessCombinationCustomerRateCredits_637245503778692453" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41601 - Disclosure - Income Taxes (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_635112962791925172"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable" xlink:label="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637245503778702423"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_635112962791925172" xlink:to="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637245503778702423" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_637245503778702423"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637245503778702423" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_637245503778702423" order="1" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_637245503778702423"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_637245503778702423" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_637245503778702423" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_637245503778702423" xlink:to="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember_637245503778732336" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20200331.xsd#wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:label="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637245503778702423" xlink:to="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637245503778732336" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_637245503778732336" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate_637245503778732336" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherAdjustments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherAdjustments_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherAdjustments_637245503778732336" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSubsequesntEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41801 - Disclosure - Subsequesnt Events (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637245503778732336" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778732336" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778732336" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637245503778732336" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637245503778732336" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637245503778732336" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2019/elts/us-gaap-2019-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778732336"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_637245503778732336" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637245503778732336" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc></presentationLink></linkbase>
