Call for evidence marks largest review of water industry since privatisation
The Independent Water Commission explores a new wave of ideas on future changes to the water sector.
The Independent Water Commission seeks views to inform development of recommendations for “a longer-term reset” of the water sector in England and Wales.
What is this about?
The Independent Water Commission was launched by the UK and Welsh governments.
This call for evidence outlines the current issues based on the evidence gathered so far, and areas for potential change the Commission wishes to explore.
The Commission seeks views on six key areas:
- The strategic management of water: How to manage the competing pressures and demands on the water system, and how strategic direction and management can be set at both national and regional levels.
- Asset health and supply chains: Improving the resilience of water company infrastructure – pipes, water treatment plants, reservoirs and pumping stations. It also covers the capacity and robustness of water industry supply chains.
- The overarching regulatory system: The volume and complexity of legislation in the water sector, and the overall functions and responsibilities of the four regulators (Ofwat, Environment Agency, Drinking Water Inspectorate, Natural Resources Wales).
- Economic regulation: The five-yearly Price Review process and the weight placed upon industry-wide benchmarking. It also covers customer protections, financial resilience and investor returns – including how to attract the necessary finance for future investment.
- Environmental and drinking water regulation: How regulation can better protect the environment, public health and water resources. It seeks views on how water companies are held to account for non-compliance.
- Water company ownership models: The impact of public listing versus private ownership and how to ensure financial resilience.
What happens next?
This call for evidence closes on 23 April 2025. The Independent Water Commission will make its final recommendations to both UK and Welsh Governments this summer.
Where can I find more information?
More information about this call for evidence and how to take part is available on the gov.uk website.
How can Inspired help?
Water is an often-overlooked utility, but every drop counts. If you would like to discuss finding the right solutions to cut down consumption and costs for your portfolio, Inspired’s experts are here to support you.
Please ring 01772 689250 or email us at hello@inspiredplc.co.uk
Image credit: Gemma Crank, Inspired’s Group Marketing team.
