Almost two-thirds (65%) of UK consumers are calling out for greater transparency in how bill payments are spent by water suppliers, according to new research.

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water has announced a record £47 million customer dividend which will see customer benefit from a range of projects, including a lead pipe replacement programme, support for lowest-earning customers and reservoir visitor centres.

A Wessex Water scheme to make homes more water efficient has helped to save one million litres. 

A new report by Citizens Advice published yesterday which criticises utilities regulators for presiding over sustained overcharging to customers, says that while Ofwat has gone some way to correct the mistakes of the past, more work needs to be done.

Ofwat has published a discussion paper setting out its emerging thinking about a new shared vision for the water sector and Ofwat’s strategy for regulating the water and wastewater companies in England and Wales from 2020 onwards.

The Consumer Council for Water (CCWater) has applauded seven water companies for boosting compensation for people that are left without running water – and called on the rest of the industry to follow suit.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove has said that the private water sector model delivers the best outcomes for customers and environment at the best value price – but only when underpinned by strong regulation and companies working harder in the public interest, not just in the interest of shareholders.

New figures from an independent study commissioned by United Utilities ahead of its annual affordability summit reveal that nearly 3 in 10 (29%) North West residents are struggling to pay their bills now compared to a year ago.

Water regulator Ofwat has today published its revised board leadership, transparency, and governance Principles. First introduced in 2014, Ofwat launched a review of its Principles last year, following public concerns raised over corporate behaviours in the water sector.

Water industry regulator Ofwat says the majority of customers are still a considerable way from enjoying the full benefits in terms of price, service, and water savings expected from the business retail water market.