Ofwat Approves 36% Water Bill Increase in England and Wales, Average £31 Yearly Hike to Fund £104 Billion Investment

Dec 19, 2024, 07:07 AM

The water regulator Ofwat has announced that household water bills in England and Wales will rise by an average of £31 per year over the next five years. This increase represents a 36% hike above inflation, aimed at funding £104 billion in investments to improve water services and prevent pollution. Thames Water is expected to receive approval for a bill increase of 33% by 2030, while some regional suppliers, such as Southern Water, may raise bills by as much as 53%, adding an extra £222 annually. The decision follows criticism of water companies for their past practices, including sewage dumping and high executive pay, as they seek to recover costs from customers for their operational challenges.