DOMESTIC WATER METERING - IS THE LAW ADEQUATE?

摘要

Since 1989, a wide range of government legislation has had direct consequences for household water charging arrangements and systems, particularly in relation to the metering of domestic customers. Key drivers on metering activity within England and Wales have been the privatisation of the water industry and also the requirements of the regulator. Ofwat's influence is particularly obvious when the pressure to control water demand and, to a lesser extent, open up the industry to competition is considered. As a result of this push for metering in the domestic sector, there still appears to be considerable scope for growth in meter numbers. Water availability depends critically on where you happen to live. Quite correctly, there is a general acceptance by the water industry, government, regulator, customer service committees and organisations such as CIWEM, that household metering should be made compulsory in regions where resources are under stress to assist in water conservation. The water companies should retain the ability to apply to Defra for water-stressed area status and, if this is granted, meter all properties where practicable.