<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<!--XBRL document created by Certent Disclosure Management 22.2.0.1 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 8/9/2022 10:25:33 AM-->
<!--Modified on: 8/9/2022 10:25:33 AM-->
<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-20220630.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperationsAndComprehensiveIncome" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperationsAndComprehensiveIncome"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalization" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalization"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquity" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquity"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfEquityParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlow" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlow"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowParenthetical"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognition" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognition"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitions" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitions"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureGoodwill" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwill"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureCapitalization" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCapitalization"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstruments" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstruments"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShare" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShare"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefits" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefits"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureRateActivity" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRateActivity"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxes"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformation" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformation"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognitionTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureGoodwillTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationTables" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationTables"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognitionScheduleOfDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionScheduleOfDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureGoodwillDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureCapitalizationDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCapitalizationDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfUnrealizedGainAndLossesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfUnrealizedGainAndLossesDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsScheduleOfCarryingAmountsAndEstimatedFairValuesOfLongTermDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsScheduleOfCarryingAmountsAndEstimatedFairValuesOfLongTermDebtDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfPsuTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfPsuTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRsuTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRsuTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfCompensationCostsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfCompensationCostsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAssumptionsUsedInPricingModelDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAssumptionsUsedInPricingModelDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfStockOptionTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfStockOptionTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfNonvestedShareActivityDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfNonvestedShareActivityDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRestrictedStockTransactionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationSummaryOfRestrictedStockTransactionsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsComponentsOfNetPeriodicBenefitCostsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsComponentsOfNetPeriodicBenefitCostsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureRateActivityDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureRateActivityDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationContinuingOperationsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationContinuingOperationsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationAssetsDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesDetails"></roleRef>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" roleURI="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails"></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/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:label="dei_CoverAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType_637956375298841801"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType_637956375298841801" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_637956375298862037" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_637956375298862037" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_637956375298862037" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_637956375298862037" order="5" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_637956375298862037" order="6" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityFileNumber_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityFileNumber_637956375298862037" order="7" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName_637956375298862037" order="8" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_637956375298862037" order="9" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_637956375298862037" order="10" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_637956375298862037" order="11" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_637956375298862037" order="12" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_637956375298862037" order="13" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_637956375298862037" order="14" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:label="dei_CityAreaCode_637956375298862037"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_CityAreaCode_637956375298862037" order="15" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:label="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_637956375298872124" order="16" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:label="dei_Security12bTitle_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_Security12bTitle_637956375298872124" order="17" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol_637956375298872124" order="18" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:label="dei_SecurityExchangeName_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_SecurityExchangeName_637956375298872124" order="19" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_637956375298872124" order="20" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:label="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_637956375298872124" order="21" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory_637956375298872124" order="22" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_637956375298872124" order="23" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_637956375298872124" order="24" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany_637956375298872124" order="25" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_637956375298872124" order="26" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag_637956375298872124" order="27" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_637956375298872124" order="28" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_637956375298872124"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_637956375298872124" order="29" use="optional"></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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_633942622186382176"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098"></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_637956375298882098" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_637956375298882098"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_637956375298882098" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_637956375298892055" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_637956375298892055" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637956375298892055" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_637956375298892055" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UnbilledReceivablesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnbilledReceivablesCurrent_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnbilledReceivablesCurrent_637956375298892055" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterialsAndSupplies" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterialsAndSupplies_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterialsAndSupplies_637956375298892055" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EnergyRelatedInventoryNaturalGasInStorage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EnergyRelatedInventoryNaturalGasInStorage_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_EnergyRelatedInventoryNaturalGasInStorage_637956375298892055" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_637956375298892055" order="6" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsCurrent_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsCurrent_637956375298892055" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_637956375298892055" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_637956375298892055" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsNoncurrent_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssetsNoncurrent_637956375298892055" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssets_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCostsAndOtherAssets_637956375298892055" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalentsNoncurrent_637956375298892055" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637956375298892055" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_637956375298892055"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_637956375298892055" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill_637956375298902060" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_637956375298882098" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_637956375298902060" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060"></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_637956375298902060" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637956375298902060" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637956375298902060" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637956375298902060" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637956375298902060" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375298902060" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637956375298902060" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637956375298902060" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637956375298902060" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_637956375298902060" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" order="6" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637956375298911998" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LoansPayableCurrentNotIncludedInCurrentPortionOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_LoansPayableCurrentNotIncludedInCurrentPortionOfLongTermDebt_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="wtrg_LoansPayableCurrentNotIncludedInCurrentPortionOfLongTermDebt_637956375298911998" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_637956375298911998" order="3" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BankOverdrafts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BankOverdrafts_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_BankOverdrafts_637956375298911998" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_637956375298911998" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent_637956375298911998" order="6" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityCurrent_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityCurrent_637956375298911998" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_637956375298911998" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_637956375298911998" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" order="7" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_637956375298921597" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent_637956375298921597" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="us-gaap_PostemploymentBenefitsLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375298921597" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_637956375298921597" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LiabilitiesNoncurrentLessLongTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_LiabilitiesNoncurrentLessLongTermDebt_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_637956375298911998" xlink:to="wtrg_LiabilitiesNoncurrentLessLongTermDebt_637956375298921597" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ContributionsInAidOfConstruction" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637956375298921597"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637956375298921597" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298902060" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_637956375298931945" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637956375298931945"></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_637956375298931945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637956375298931945"></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_637956375298931945" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_637956375298931945"></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_637956375298931945" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares_637956375298931945"></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_637956375298931945" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_633942624149858176"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637956375298931945"></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_637956375298931945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945"></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_637956375298931945" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637956375298931945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637956375298931945" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Depreciation" xlink:label="us-gaap_Depreciation_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_Depreciation_637956375298931945" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortization_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortization_637956375298931945" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637956375298931945" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses_637956375298931945" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637956375298931945" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945"></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_637956375298931945" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense_637956375298931945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOperating_637956375298931945" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637956375298931945"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637956375298931945" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_637956375298941907" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_637956375298941907" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_637956375298941907" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_637956375298931945" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637956375298941907" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375298941907"></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_637956375298941907" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax_637956375298941907"></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_637956375298941907" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637956375298941907"></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_637956375298941907" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637956375298941907" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_637956375298941907" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637956375298941907" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_637956375298941907" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_637956375298941907"></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_637956375298941907" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_637956375298941907" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_637956375298941907" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_637956375298941907" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_637956375298941907" 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-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298941907" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298941907" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375298941907" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375298941907" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298951906" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637956375298951906" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637956375298951906" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesBbMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesBbMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesBbMember_637956375298951906" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesAaMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesAaMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesAaMember_637956375298951906" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesRangesBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesRangesBMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesRangesBMember_637956375298951906" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesZMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesZMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesZMember_637956375298951906" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember_637956375298951906" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesRangesCMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesRangesCMember_637956375298951906"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298941907" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesRangesCMember_637956375298951906" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298941907" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298961888" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298961888" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_637956375298961888" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_637956375298961888" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637956375298961888" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue_637956375298961888" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375298961888" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuredDebt_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuredDebt_637956375298961888" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NotesPayableToBank" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBank_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBank_637956375298961888" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt_637956375298961888" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_637956375298961888" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_637956375298961888" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637956375298961888"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmountNoncurrent_637956375298961888" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_637956375298971851" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_637956375298971851" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquity_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAbstract_637956375298961888" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquity_637956375298971851" 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-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_ConsolidatedStatementsOfCapitalizationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298971851" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298971851" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637956375298971851" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637956375298971851" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637956375298971851" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375298971851" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637956375298971851" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375298971851" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637956375298971851" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298971851" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375298971851" order="2" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375298971851" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesZeroPointZeroZeroPercentageToZeroPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesOnePointZeroZeroPercentageToOnePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesTwoPointZeroZeroPercentageToTwoPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesThreePointZeroZeroPercentageToThreePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFourPointZeroZeroPercentageToFourPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298971851" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesFivePointZeroZeroPercentageToFivePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSixPointZeroZeroPercentageToSixPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesSevenPointZeroZeroPercentageToSevenPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesEightPointZeroZeroPercentageToEightPointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtOfSubsidiariesNinePointZeroZeroPercentageToNinePointNineNinePercentageMember_637956375298981833" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_RevolvingCreditAgreementDueBMember_637956375298981833" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_AmortizingNotesMember_637956375298981833" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesBbMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesBbMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesBbMember_637956375298981833" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesAaMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesAaMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesAaMember_637956375298981833" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesBMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesBMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesBMember_637956375298981833" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesCMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesCMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesCMember_637956375298981833" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesZMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesZMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesZMember_637956375298981833" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember_637956375298981833" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesFMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesFMember_637956375298981833"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesFMember_637956375298981833" order="19" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesGMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesGMember_637956375298991790"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375298971851" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesGMember_637956375298991790" order="20" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298992498"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375298971851" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298992498" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637956375298996250"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298992498" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637956375298996250" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637956375298997186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298992498" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637956375298997186" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637956375298997186"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375298992498" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637956375298997186" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract_634155893184644604"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375299000782"></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_637956375299000782" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375299000782" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ParentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentMember_637956375299001370"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentMember_637956375299001370" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_637956375299001370"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_637956375299001370" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_637956375299001941"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_637956375299001941" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_637956375299001941"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_637956375299001941" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember_637956375299001941"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockMember_637956375299001941" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_637956375299001941"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_637956375299001085" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_637956375299001941" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_637956375299000782" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375299003842" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299003842" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_637956375299003842" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockPaidinkind" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockPaidinkind_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockPaidinkind_637956375299003842" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash_637956375299003842" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues_637956375299003842" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValuePurchaseOfAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValuePurchaseOfAssets_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValuePurchaseOfAssets_637956375299003842" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan_637956375299003842" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="8"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreement" xlink:label="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreement_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreement_637956375299003842" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod_637956375299003842" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockGrantedDuringPeriodValueSharebasedCompensation_637956375299003842" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_637956375299003842" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_TreasuryStockReissuedAtLowerThanRepurchasePriceShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="wtrg_TreasuryStockReissuedAtLowerThanRepurchasePriceShareBasedCompensation_637956375299003842"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="wtrg_TreasuryStockReissuedAtLowerThanRepurchasePriceShareBasedCompensation_637956375299003842" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_637956375299011350" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalOther_637956375299011350" order="15" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_637956375299003842" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_637956375299011350" order="16" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid_637956375299011350"></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_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid_637956375299011350" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesDividendReinvestmentPlan_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreementShares" xlink:label="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreementShares_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesTaxAbstract_633943946466403097" xlink:to="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreementShares_637956375299011350" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="8" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_633942627111206176"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="1" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299011350" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350"></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_637956375299011350" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_637956375299011350" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637956375299011350" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts_637956375299011350" order="3" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_637956375299011350"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_637956375299011350" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_637956375299021657" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesReceivablesAndPrepayments" xlink:label="wtrg_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesReceivablesAndPrepayments_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="wtrg_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesReceivablesAndPrepayments_637956375299021657" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities_637956375299021657" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPensionAndPostretirementObligations" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPensionAndPostretirementObligations_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPensionAndPostretirementObligations_637956375299021657" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_637956375299021657" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_637956375299011350" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_637956375299021657" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657"></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_637956375299021657" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637956375299021657" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireWasteWaterSystems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireWasteWaterSystems_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireWasteWaterSystems_637956375299021657" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ProceedsFromSaleOfUtilitySystemAndOther" xlink:label="wtrg_ProceedsFromSaleOfUtilitySystemAndOther_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="wtrg_ProceedsFromSaleOfUtilitySystemAndOther_637956375299021657" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities_637956375299021657" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_637956375299021657" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657"></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_637956375299021657" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ProceedsFromAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities" xlink:label="wtrg_ProceedsFromAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="wtrg_ProceedsFromAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637956375299021657" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_RepaymentsOfAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities" xlink:label="wtrg_RepaymentsOfAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="wtrg_RepaymentsOfAdvancesForConstructionFinancingActivities_637956375299021657" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt_637956375299021657" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt_637956375299021657" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637956375299021657"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637956375299021657" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfBankOverdraftsLessShortTermDebt" xlink:label="wtrg_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfBankOverdraftsLessShortTermDebt_637956375299031702"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="wtrg_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfBankOverdraftsLessShortTermDebt_637956375299031702" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637956375299031702"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_637956375299031702" order="7" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised_637956375299031702"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised_637956375299031702" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock_637956375299031702"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock_637956375299031702" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock_637956375299031702"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock_637956375299031702" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities_637956375299031702"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities_637956375299031702" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_637956375299031702"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract_637956375299021657" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_637956375299031702" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_637956375299031702"></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_637956375299031702" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_637956375299031702"></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_637956375299031702" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6379563752990317021"></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_6379563752990317021" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637956375299041695"></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_637956375299041695" order="8" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_637956375299041695"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637956375299041695" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_637956375299041695" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NonCashCustomerAdvancesAndContributionsInAidOfConstruction" xlink:label="wtrg_NonCashCustomerAdvancesAndContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637956375299041695"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NoncashInvestingAndFinancingItemsAbstract_637956375299041695" xlink:to="wtrg_NonCashCustomerAdvancesAndContributionsInAidOfConstruction_637956375299041695" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_635345580869903084"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtComponentOfAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstruction" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtComponentOfAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstruction_637956375299041695"></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_637956375299041695" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299041695"></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_637956375299041695" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_637956375299071590"></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_637956375299071590" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299071590"></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_637956375299071590" 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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299071590"></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_637956375299071590" 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="10501 - Disclosure - Capitalization">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_CapitalizationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="wtrg_CapitalizationDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299071590"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_CapitalizationDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299071590" 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="10601 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865324897"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock_637956375299071590"></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_637956375299071590" 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="10701 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454899944708"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_637956375299071590"></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_637956375299071590" 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="10801 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock_637956375299071590"></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_637956375299071590" 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="10901 - Disclosure - Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189394168"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299071590"></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_637956375299071590" 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="11001 - Disclosure - Rate Activity">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299071590"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299071590" 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="11101 - Disclosure - Taxes Other Than Income Taxes">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTextBlock" xlink:label="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTextBlock_637956375299081564"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTextBlock_637956375299081564" 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="11201 - Disclosure - Segment Information">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" 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="11301 - Disclosure - Commitments And Contingencies">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" 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="11401 - Disclosure - Income Taxes">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" 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="11501 - Disclosure - Recent Accounting Pronouncements">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="30603 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865625326"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_TradingSecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradingSecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" 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="30703 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_635112962791865166"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_637956375299081564"></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_637956375299081564" 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="30803 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299091523"></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_637956375299091523" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299091523" order="1" use="optional" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299091523" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299091523" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299091523" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299091523" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299091523" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299091523" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299091523" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationAllocationOfRecognizedPeriodCostsTextBlock_637956375299091523" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedPerformanceBasedUnitsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedPerformanceBasedUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedPerformanceBasedUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardEmployeeStockPurchasePlanValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardEmployeeStockPurchasePlanValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardEmployeeStockPurchasePlanValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock_637956375299091523" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedShareActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedShareActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNonvestedShareActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299091523" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock_637956375299091523" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureTaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31103 - Disclosure - Taxes Other Than Income Taxes (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTableTextBlock_637956375299091523"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_UtilitiesOperatingExpensesTaxesAsInAnnualReportTableTextBlock_637956375299091523" 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="31203 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Tables)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfRevenueFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfRevenueFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock_637956375299101106"></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_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock_637956375299101106"></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_637956375299101106" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></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="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637956375299101106"></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_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637956375299101106" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_637956375299101106" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WastewaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WastewaterMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_WastewaterMember_637956375299101106" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299101106" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_OtherMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherMember_637956375299101106" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637956375299101106" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299101106" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299101106" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ConsolidationEliminationsMember" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationEliminationsMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationEliminationsMember_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637956375299101106" xlink:to="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_637956375299101106" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_637956375299101106" xlink:to="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ResidentialMember" xlink:label="wtrg_ResidentialMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_ResidentialMember_637956375299101106" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_CommercialMember" xlink:label="wtrg_CommercialMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_CommercialMember_637956375299101106" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_FireProtectionMember" xlink:label="wtrg_FireProtectionMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_FireProtectionMember_637956375299101106" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IndustrialMember" xlink:label="wtrg_IndustrialMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_IndustrialMember_637956375299101106" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_GasTransportationMember" xlink:label="wtrg_GasTransportationMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_GasTransportationMember_637956375299101106" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_OtherWaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherWaterMember_637956375299101106"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherWaterMember_637956375299101106" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_OtherWastewaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherWastewaterMember_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherWastewaterMember_637956375299111482" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_OtherUtilityMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherUtilityMember_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherUtilityMember_637956375299111482" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AlternativeRevenueProgramMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AlternativeRevenueProgramMember_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_637956375299101106" xlink:to="wtrg_AlternativeRevenueProgramMember_637956375299111482" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_637956375299101106" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637956375299111482" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637956375299111482" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637956375299111482" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_637956375299111482" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues_637956375299111482" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40301 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637956375299111482"></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_637956375299111482" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637956375299111482" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637956375299111482" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_637956375299111482" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637956375299111482" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_637956375299111482" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_637956375299111482" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637956375299111482" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637956375299111482" order="2" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637956375299111482" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_IL" xlink:label="stpr_IL_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482" xlink:to="stpr_IL_637956375299111482" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_PA" xlink:label="stpr_PA_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482" xlink:to="stpr_PA_637956375299111482" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_DE" xlink:label="stpr_DE_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482" xlink:to="stpr_DE_637956375299111482" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_TX" xlink:label="stpr_TX_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482" xlink:to="stpr_TX_637956375299111482" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LowerMakefieldTownshipMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LowerMakefieldTownshipMember_637956375299111482"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482" xlink:to="wtrg_LowerMakefieldTownshipMember_637956375299111482" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_SouthernOaksMember" xlink:label="wtrg_SouthernOaksMember_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299111482" xlink:to="wtrg_SouthernOaksMember_637956375299121062" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637956375299111482" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637956375299121062" order="3" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299121062" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterUtilitySystemMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterUtilitySystemMember_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299121062" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterUtilitySystemMember_637956375299121062" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299121062" xlink:to="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember_637956375299121062" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemMember_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299121062" xlink:to="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemMember_637956375299121062" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable_637956375299111482" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" order="4" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfCustomers" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfCustomers_637956375299121062" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfRetailCustomers" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfRetailCustomers_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfRetailCustomers_637956375299121062" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NumberOfMunicipalities" xlink:label="wtrg_NumberOfMunicipalities_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="wtrg_NumberOfMunicipalities_637956375299121062" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1_637956375299121062" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637956375299121062" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues_637956375299121062" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299121062" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637956375299121062" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637956375299121062"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637956375299121062" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637956375299131400" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems_637956375299121062" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_637956375299131400" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="8"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureGoodwillDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40402 - Disclosure - Goodwill (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637956375299131400"></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_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299131400" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299131400" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299131400" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299131400" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637956375299131400" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ReclassificationOfGoodwillAcquisitionAdjustment" xlink:label="wtrg_ReclassificationOfGoodwillAcquisitionAdjustment_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637956375299131400" xlink:to="wtrg_ReclassificationOfGoodwillAcquisitionAdjustment_637956375299131400" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_6379563752991314001"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_6379563752991314001" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureCapitalizationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40501 - Disclosure - Capitalization (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizationLongtermDebtAndEquityAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400"></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_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember_637956375299131400"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_637956375299131400" xlink:to="wtrg_LdcFundingLlcMember_637956375299131400" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299141403" order="2" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299141403" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375299141403" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375299141403" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637956375299141403" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis_637956375299141403" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2022/dei-2022.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis_637956375299141403" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AquaOhioIncMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AquaOhioIncMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_AquaOhioIncMember_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AquaPennsylvaniaIncMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AquaPennsylvaniaIncMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_EntityDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_AquaPennsylvaniaIncMember_637956375299141403" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_637956375299141403" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_637956375299141403" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_LongTermDebtsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_LongTermDebtsMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_LongTermDebtsMember_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_MortgageBondsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_MortgageBondsMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_MortgageBondsMember_637956375299141403" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_MortgageBonds2Member" xlink:label="wtrg_MortgageBonds2Member_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_MortgageBonds2Member_637956375299141403" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_MortgageBonds3Member" xlink:label="wtrg_MortgageBonds3Member_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_MortgageBonds3Member_637956375299141403" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375299141403" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_637956375299141403" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_NotesAtFivePointThirtyPercentDueTwoThousandFiftyTwoMember_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_637956375299141403" order="6" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_637956375299141403" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_UnsecuredCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="wtrg_UnsecuredCreditFacilityMember_637956375299141403"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="wtrg_UnsecuredCreditFacilityMember_637956375299141403" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_637956375299151942"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_637956375299141403" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_637956375299151942" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299151942"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299151942" order="7" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299151942"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299151942" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299151942" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_InitialForwardEquitySaleAgreementMember" xlink:label="wtrg_InitialForwardEquitySaleAgreementMember_637956375299151942"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_InitialForwardEquitySaleAgreementMember_637956375299151942" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ForwardEquitySaleAgreementMember" xlink:label="wtrg_ForwardEquitySaleAgreementMember_637956375299151942"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_ForwardEquitySaleAgreementMember_637956375299151942" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DateMember" xlink:label="wtrg_DateMember_637956375299151942"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_DateMember_637956375299151942" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_637956375299131400" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" order="8" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement_637956375299160951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement_637956375299160951" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637956375299160951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_637956375299160951" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637956375299160951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_637956375299160951" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637956375299160951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1_637956375299160951" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeForwardPrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeForwardPrice_637956375299160951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeForwardPrice_637956375299160951" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreement" xlink:label="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreement_637956375299160951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreement_637956375299160951" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreementShares" xlink:label="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreementShares_637956375299160951"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_IssuanceOfCommonStockFromForwardEquitySaleAgreementShares_637956375299160951" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettledDuringPeriod" xlink:label="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettledDuringPeriod_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettledDuringPeriod_637956375299170931" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettled" xlink:label="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettled_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_StockPurchaseContractsSharesSettled_637956375299170931" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesPurchaseOfAssets_637956375299170931" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt_637956375299170931" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleSettlement" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleSettlement_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleSettlement_637956375299170931" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal_637956375299170931" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleBeneficialConversionFeaturePerShare" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleBeneficialConversionFeaturePerShare_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleBeneficialConversionFeaturePerShare_637956375299170931" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallment" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallment_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallment_637956375299170931" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallmentRate" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallmentRate_637956375299170931"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentConvertibleCashInstallmentRate_637956375299170931" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_637956375299181281" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateYear_637956375299181281" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_637956375299181281" order="19" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount_637956375299181281" order="20" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts_637956375299181281" order="21" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm_637956375299181281" order="22" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYear" xlink:label="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYear_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="wtrg_DebtInstrumentMaturityYear_637956375299181281" order="23" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637956375299181281"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_637956375299181281" order="24" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637956375299191213"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt_637956375299191213" order="25" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermLinesOfCredit_637956375299191213"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermLinesOfCredit_637956375299191213" order="26" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt_637956375299191213"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_637956375299151942" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt_637956375299191213" order="27" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40601 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637956375299199020"></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_637956375299199020" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637956375299199020"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637956375299199020" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637956375299199020" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637956375299200433"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_637956375299199020" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637956375299200433" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_637956375299200844"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_637956375299200433" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_637956375299200844" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299200844"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637956375299199020" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299200844" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LoansPayableFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansPayableFairValueDisclosure_637956375299200844"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299200844" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansPayableFairValueDisclosure_637956375299200844" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure_637956375299200844"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299200844" xlink:to="us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure_637956375299200844" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637956375299200844"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299200844" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_637956375299200844" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375299200844"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299200844" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNoncurrent_637956375299200844" order="4" use="optional" priority="4"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureFinancialInstrumentsSummaryOfUnrealizedGainAndLossesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40602 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Summary Of Unrealized Gain And Losses) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiGainLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiGainLoss_637956375299200844"></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_637956375299200844" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiRealizedGainLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiRealizedGainLoss_637956375299200844"></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_637956375299200844" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiUnrealizedGainLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquitySecuritiesFvNiUnrealizedGainLoss_637956375299200844"></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_637956375299200844" 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="40603 - Disclosure - Financial Instruments (Schedule Of Carrying Amounts And Estimated Fair Values Of Long-Term Debt) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_634619296865825612"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637956375299210815"></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_637956375299210815" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637956375299210815" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_637956375299210815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299210815" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue_637956375299210815" 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="40701 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_635112962791885168"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_637956375299210815"></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_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_637956375299210815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AverageCommonSharesOutstandingIncludedInComputation" xlink:label="wtrg_AverageCommonSharesOutstandingIncludedInComputation_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_635112962791885168" xlink:to="wtrg_AverageCommonSharesOutstandingIncludedInComputation_637956375299210815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureNetIncomePerCommonShareScheduleOfEarningsPerShareDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40702 - Disclosure - Net Income Per Common Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_634621454901346724"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_637956375299210815"></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_637956375299210815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637956375299210815"></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_637956375299210815" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityForwardAgreements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityForwardAgreements_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToEquityForwardAgreements_637956375299210815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="8"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_637956375299210815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_637956375299210815" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_637956375299210815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_637956375299210815"></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_637956375299210815" 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="40801 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026628570"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299221192"></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_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299221192" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299221192" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299221192" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299221192" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299221192" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299221192" order="2" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299221192" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375299221192" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375299221192" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637956375299221192" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637956375299221192" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_TwoThousandAndFourOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="wtrg_TwoThousandAndFourOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="wtrg_TwoThousandAndFourOmnibusEquityCompensationPlanMember_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AmendedAndRestatedEquityCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="wtrg_AmendedAndRestatedEquityCompensationPlanMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="wtrg_AmendedAndRestatedEquityCompensationPlanMember_637956375299221192" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_VestingAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingAxis_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingAxis_637956375299221192" order="4" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingAxis_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember_637956375299221192" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember_637956375299221192"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember_637956375299221192" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheThreeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheThreeMember_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheThreeMember_637956375299231204" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299221192" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized_637956375299231204" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_MaximumNumberOfSharesMayBeIssuedPursuantToStockAwardsStockUnitsAndOtherStockBasedAwards" xlink:label="wtrg_MaximumNumberOfSharesMayBeIssuedPursuantToStockAwardsStockUnitsAndOtherStockBasedAwards_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="wtrg_MaximumNumberOfSharesMayBeIssuedPursuantToStockAwardsStockUnitsAndOtherStockBasedAwards_637956375299231204" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee_637956375299231204" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant_637956375299231204" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PerformancePeriodSpecifiedInGrant" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformancePeriodSpecifiedInGrant_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformancePeriodSpecifiedInGrant_637956375299231204" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637956375299231204" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_637956375299231204" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardRequisiteServicePeriod1_637956375299231204" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_637956375299231204" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_RestrictedStockUnitsRestrictedPeriod" xlink:label="wtrg_RestrictedStockUnitsRestrictedPeriod_637956375299231204"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="wtrg_RestrictedStockUnitsRestrictedPeriod_637956375299231204" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PercentageOfTargetAwardAmountParticipantMayEarn" xlink:label="wtrg_PercentageOfTargetAwardAmountParticipantMayEarn_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="wtrg_PercentageOfTargetAwardAmountParticipantMayEarn_637956375299241197" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299241197" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299241197" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAmortizationPeriodOfFairValueOfShares" xlink:label="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAmortizationPeriodOfFairValueOfShares_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299231204" xlink:to="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAmortizationPeriodOfFairValueOfShares_637956375299241197" 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="40802 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of PSU Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026828856"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299241197"></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_637956375299241197" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299241197" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299241197" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299241197" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299241197" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299251101" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299251101" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637956375299251101" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299251101" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6379563752992511011"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6379563752992511011" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299251101" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752992511011"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299241197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752992511011" order="10" 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="40803 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of RSU Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026928999"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299251101"></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_637956375299251101" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299251101" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299251101" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299251101" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299251101" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299251101"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299251101" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299261165" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637956375299261165" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299261165" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299261165" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752992611651"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299251101" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752992611651" 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="40804 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Compensation Costs) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882026928999"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299261165"></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_637956375299261165" order="1" use="optional" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299261165" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299261165" order="1" use="optional" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299261165" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299261165" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299261165" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299261165" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299261165" xlink:to="wtrg_PerformanceShareUnitsMember_637956375299261165" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299261165" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_637956375299261165" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299261165" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299261165" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299261165"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299261165" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299261165" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299261165" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense_637956375299271072" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense_637956375299271072" 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="40805 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Assumptions Used In The Pricing Model) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299271072"></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_637956375299271072" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299271072" order="1" use="optional" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299271072" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299271072" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_637956375299271072" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate_637956375299271072" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate_637956375299271072" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate_637956375299271072" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsGrantDateFairValue_637956375299271072"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299271072" xlink:to="wtrg_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsGrantDateFairValue_637956375299271072" 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="40806 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock Option Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882027229428"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299281039"></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_637956375299281039" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299281039"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299281039" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299281039"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299281039" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299281039"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember_637956375299281039" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637956375299281039"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637956375299281039" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637956375299281039"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_637956375299281039" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod_637956375299281039"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod_637956375299281039" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriod_637956375299300995"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriod_637956375299300995" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637956375299300995"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_637956375299300995" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637956375299300995"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_637956375299300995" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber_637956375299300995"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber_637956375299300995" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299300995"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299300995" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299300995"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299300995" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299300995"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299300995" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299311423"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299311423" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299311423"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299311423" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299311423"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299311423" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_637956375299320514" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_637956375299320514" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_637956375299320514" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="8"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_637956375299320514" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="8"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299281039" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1_637956375299320514" order="18" 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="40807 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Nonvested Share Activity) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_634620882027429714"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299320514"></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_637956375299320514" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299320514" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299320514" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_637956375299320514" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299320514" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299320514" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299320514"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299320514" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod_637956375299330815" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299330815" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752993308151"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299320514" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752993308151" 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="40809 - Disclosure - Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Restricted Stock Transactions) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_637239458698025027"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299330815"></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_637956375299330815" order="1" use="optional" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299330815" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299330815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_637956375299330815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_637956375299330815" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_637956375299330815" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_637956375299330815" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6379563752993308151"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6379563752993308151" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_637956375299330815" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752993308151"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_637956375299330815" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_6379563752993308151" 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="40901 - Disclosure - Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer_637956375299340803" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosurePensionPlansAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsComponentsOfNetPeriodicBenefitCostsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40902 - Disclosure - Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Costs) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndRetirementDisclosureAbstract_634621574189894888"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637956375299340803"></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_637956375299340803" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637956375299340803" order="1" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637956375299340803" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_PensionPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637956375299340803" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherPostretirementBenefitPlansDefinedBenefitMember_637956375299340803" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDefinedBenefitPlansDisclosuresTable_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost_637956375299340803" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost_637956375299340803" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets_637956375299340803" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit_637956375299340803" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfActuarialLoss" xlink:label="wtrg_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfActuarialLoss_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803" xlink:to="wtrg_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfActuarialLoss_637956375299340803" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanDisclosureLineItems_637956375299340803" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost_637956375299340803" 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="41001 - Disclosure - Rate Activity (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637956375299340803"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637956375299340803" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637956375299340803" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299350789" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299350789" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299350789" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_Year1Member" xlink:label="wtrg_Year1Member_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_Year1Member_637956375299350789" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_Year2Member" xlink:label="wtrg_Year2Member_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_Year2Member_637956375299350789" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_Year3Member" xlink:label="wtrg_Year3Member_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_Year3Member_637956375299350789" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637956375299340803" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637956375299350789" order="2" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_637956375299350789" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IllinoisAndNorthCarolinaMember" xlink:label="wtrg_IllinoisAndNorthCarolinaMember_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_IllinoisAndNorthCarolinaMember_637956375299350789" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NewJerseyOhioAndIndianaMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NewJerseyOhioAndIndianaMember_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_NewJerseyOhioAndIndianaMember_637956375299350789" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_NC" xlink:label="stpr_NC_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="stpr_NC_637956375299350789" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_PA" xlink:label="stpr_PA_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="stpr_PA_637956375299350789" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_OH" xlink:label="stpr_OH_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="stpr_OH_637956375299350789" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2022/stpr-2022.xsd#stpr_KY" xlink:label="stpr_KY_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_637956375299350789" xlink:to="stpr_KY_637956375299350789" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesTable_637956375299340803" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637956375299350789" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_AuthorizedIncreaseInRevenueFromUtilityService" xlink:label="wtrg_AuthorizedIncreaseInRevenueFromUtilityService_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_AuthorizedIncreaseInRevenueFromUtilityService_637956375299350789" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesApprovedRateIncreaseDecreaseAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesApprovedRateIncreaseDecreaseAmount_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637956375299350789" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesApprovedRateIncreaseDecreaseAmount_637956375299350789" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_BaseRateIncreaseDesignedToIncreaseTotalOperatingRevenuesOnAnnualBasis" xlink:label="wtrg_BaseRateIncreaseDesignedToIncreaseTotalOperatingRevenuesOnAnnualBasis_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_BaseRateIncreaseDesignedToIncreaseTotalOperatingRevenuesOnAnnualBasis_637956375299350789" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_DistributionSystemImprovementChargesResetLevelUponNewBaseRates" xlink:label="wtrg_DistributionSystemImprovementChargesResetLevelUponNewBaseRates_637956375299350789"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_WaterAndWastewaterRatesLineItems_637956375299350789" xlink:to="wtrg_DistributionSystemImprovementChargesResetLevelUponNewBaseRates_637956375299350789" 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="41101 - Disclosure - Taxes Other Than Income Taxes (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesAbstract" xlink:to="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637956375299360776" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637956375299360776" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299360776" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299360776" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PropertyMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PropertyMember_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776" xlink:to="wtrg_PropertyMember_637956375299360776" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_GrossReceiptsExciseAndFranchiseMember" xlink:label="wtrg_GrossReceiptsExciseAndFranchiseMember_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776" xlink:to="wtrg_GrossReceiptsExciseAndFranchiseMember_637956375299360776" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PayrollMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PayrollMember_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776" xlink:to="wtrg_PayrollMember_637956375299360776" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_RegulatoryAssessmentsMember" xlink:label="wtrg_RegulatoryAssessmentsMember_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776" xlink:to="wtrg_RegulatoryAssessmentsMember_637956375299360776" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_PumpingFeesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_PumpingFeesMember_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776" xlink:to="wtrg_PumpingFeesMember_637956375299360776" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_OtherTaxesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_OtherTaxesMember_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299360776" xlink:to="wtrg_OtherTaxesMember_637956375299360776" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems" xlink:label="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeTaxesTable_637956375299360776" xlink:to="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems_637956375299360776" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637956375299360776"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_TaxesOtherThanIncomeLineItems_637956375299360776" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637956375299360776" 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="41201 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Narrative) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417"></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_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" xlink:to="wtrg_WastewaterUtilitySystemsInVariousStatesMember_637956375299370417" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299370417" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299370417" order="2" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_637956375299370417" 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="41202 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Company&apos;s Segment Information, Continuing Operations) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637877835860266731"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637877835860266731" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299370417" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299370417" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299370417" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299370417" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637956375299370417"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637956375299370417" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299370417" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" order="3" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues_637956375299380390" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseMaintenanceAndOperations_637956375299380390" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseGasAndPetroleumPurchased_637956375299380390" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_637956375299380390" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_UtilitiesOperatingExpenseTaxes_637956375299380390" order="5" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_637956375299380390" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_InterestExpenseNetOfAfudc" xlink:label="wtrg_InterestExpenseNetOfAfudc_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="wtrg_InterestExpenseNetOfAfudc_637956375299380390" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstructionAdditions_637956375299380390" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NonOperatingIncomeExpenseOther" xlink:label="wtrg_NonOperatingIncomeExpenseOther_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="wtrg_NonOperatingIncomeExpenseOther_637956375299380390" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_637956375299380390" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="5"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_637956375299380390" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_637956375299380390" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBuildings_637956375299380390" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_637956375299380390"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299380390" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_637956375299380390" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="7"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureSegmentInformationCompanySSegmentInformationAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41203 - Disclosure - Segment Information (Company&apos;s Segment Information, Assets) (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299390332"></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_637956375299390332" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299390332" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299390332" order="1" use="optional" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_637956375299390332" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299390332" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_637956375299390332" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_637956375299390332" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299390332" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299390332" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_637956375299390332" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299390332" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_WaterMember" xlink:label="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299390332" xlink:to="wtrg_WaterMember_637956375299390332" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299390332" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasMember_637956375299390332" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_637956375299390332" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember_637956375299390332" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_637956375299390332" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299390332" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_637956375299390332" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_637956375299390332" 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="41301 - Disclosure - Commitments And Contingencies (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyEstimateOfPossibleLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyEstimateOfPossibleLoss_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyEstimateOfPossibleLoss_637956375299390332" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EstimatedInsuranceRecoveries" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimatedInsuranceRecoveries_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimatedInsuranceRecoveries_637956375299390332" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve" xlink:label="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve_637956375299390332"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve_637956375299390332" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementOperatingActivities_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementOperatingActivities_637956375299400317" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel"></presentationArc></presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.essential.co/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41401 - Disclosure - Income Taxes (Details)">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_635112962791925172"></loc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable" xlink:label="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637956375299400317"></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_637956375299400317" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637956375299400317" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299400317" order="1" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_637956375299400317" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_637956375299400317" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375299400317" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_637956375299400317" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_637956375299400317" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_637956375299400317" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637956375299400317" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299400317" order="2" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2022/elts/srt-2022.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_637956375299400317" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299400317" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_NaturalGasAccountsReceivableMember" xlink:label="wtrg_NaturalGasAccountsReceivableMember_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_637956375299400317" xlink:to="wtrg_NaturalGasAccountsReceivableMember_637956375299400317" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems" xlink:label="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxAuthorityTable_637956375299400317" xlink:to="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637956375299400317" order="3" use="optional"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637956375299400317" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_637956375299400317" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637956375299400317" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate_637956375299400317" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtStateStatutoryIncomeTaxRatePercent" xlink:label="wtrg_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtStateStatutoryIncomeTaxRatePercent_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637956375299400317" xlink:to="wtrg_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtStateStatutoryIncomeTaxRatePercent_637956375299400317" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wtrg-20220630.xsd#wtrg_ContractWithCustomerRefundPayments" xlink:label="wtrg_ContractWithCustomerRefundPayments_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637956375299400317" xlink:to="wtrg_ContractWithCustomerRefundPayments_637956375299400317" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3"></presentationArc>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2022/elts/us-gaap-2022.xsd#us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilities_637956375299400317"></loc>
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wtrg_IncomeTaxesLineItems_637956375299400317" xlink:to="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilities_637956375299400317" order="5" use="optional" priority="2"></presentationArc></presentationLink></linkbase>
