Strong interims and abundant water supplies reported

摘要

A strong set of interim results by five of England and Wales' ten water and sewerage companies (WaSCs) reflects the boost given to them by the 2004 Periodic Review (PRO4) and some desk clearing prior to this. As noted at Kelda, higher oil prices are having a significant impact whilst hedging prices can only go so far in preventing unexpected future costs. At Severn Trent, energy costs are set to rise from £31 million in 2005/06 to £56 million in 2006/07. Anglian Water's energy costs were held within their PR04 expectations through hedging, rising by £11 million during the year and are anticipated to rise by a further 40% in the current year. Meanwhile, Northumbrian Water's power costs rose by £4.8 million.