HOUSEHOLDS are warned that water bills could rise as the government tells the water regulator to clean up rivers and improve supply.
Water companies have been asked to prioritise tackling sewage and pollution, according to new government guidance.
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Writing in The Telegraph, George Eustice, the Environment Secretary said that water companies have “failed to plan” for the capacity needed to cope with bursts of heavy rainfall.
He said: “The amount of sewage discharge by water companies into our rivers is unacceptable.
“I am reiterating that water companies must significantly reduce the frequency and volume of sewage discharges from storm overflows.”
The Strategic Policy Statement (SPS) said water companies should dump untreated sewage only when there’s “unusually heavy rainfall” and sets a target of zero serious pollution incidents by 2030.
“It is government’s expectation that Ofwat and the water industry will prioritise appropriate action to enhance water quality and deliver a resilient and sustainable water supply,” the document reads.
As the paper helps Ofwat, the industry regulator, decide how much companies can charge customers, water bills are expected to rise to make up for the cost of improvements.
Last year ahead of the COP26 climate summit, the government announced plans for water companies to cut raw sewage being pumped in the rivers.
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The measure was criticised that it may not go far enough as it will force them only to reduce the waste they pump out over the next five years.
But campaigners wanted ministers to put a stop to the practice to protect our waterways.
The latest government document, set to appear before Parliament on Wednesday, has been welcomed by various organisations.
An Ofwat spokesperson said: “We welcome the publication of the Strategic Policy Statement. Companies need to go further to protect the environment and we welcome the clear steer, support and endorsement in pushing them to do so.
“We will continue to allow significant investment in the environment, take action on companies that fall short on their performance and drive them to be more transparent on their delivery and impact on rivers.”
How to save money on your water bills
IF you’re not eligible for a social tariff, here are other ways to cut your bills and keep costs down.
- If you’re struggling to pay your bill, discuss it with your water company. Some offer freebies to help you reduce the amount of water you use, such as save-a-flush devices and special showerheads
- Check what water and sewerage services you receive and claim a rebate for any you’re not getting
- Check that you are paying the correct tariff
- If you aren’t already on a meter, check if you can reduce your bill by having one installed free of charge. CCWater has an online water meter calculator which can help you see if you’ll be better off
- If you have more people in your house than rooms, you’ll probably save money by having a meter
- Read your meter regularly – it can help save you money
- Look for ways to reduce your water usage if you’re on a meter, eg turning off the taps when you’re brushing your teeth
Water UK, the trade association representing British water companies, said they agree that it’s an urgent matter to protect UK rivers from sewage overflows.
A spokesperson said: “Water companies have long stressed the need for regulation to take a long-term view of the sector and allow increased investment to help address the acute challenges posed by climate change and population growth. The Strategic Policy Statement (SPS) largely echoes this sentiment.
“Ofwat must now work with water companies to ensure that the next price review enables the sector to meet government targets by authorising investment in the right schemes such as net zero and improving river water quality.”
We explain how to save up to £500 a year on water bills if you’re on Universal Credit or a low income.
Under the WaterSure scheme, companies offer a range of support options to struggling households that could cut your bill by up to 90% depending where you live.
Meanwhile, a Martin Lewis fan explains how he saved £360 a year on water bills by using a meter.
The switch meant he managed to more than halve his monthly bill, and save hundreds of pounds a year.
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