Water supply and sanitation in the United Kingdom

Economic regulation of the water industry in England and Wales

Retrieved on: 
Friday, June 5, 2020

This briefing paper provides an overview of the economic regulation of the water industry in England and Wales.

Key Points: 
  • This briefing paper provides an overview of the economic regulation of the water industry in England and Wales.
  • The water industry in England and Wales was privatised in 1989.
  • Consequently, there is a need for economic regulation of the industry to ensure that the industry delivers value for consumers and the environment.
  • Ofwat (the Water Services Regulation Authority) is the economic regulator from the water industry in England and Wales.