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World Trade· August 16, 2026 at 04:28 p.m.

Water Companies in England and Wales Consider Surge Pricing During Drought

Water Companies in England and Wales Consider Surge Pricing During Drought

Key takeaways

  • Water companies in England and Wales are considering surge pricing during drought
  • The practice is likened to surge pricing used by private hire firms
  • Ofwat's proposals aim to reduce water consumption

English and Welsh water companies are exploring the possibility of implementing 'surge pricing' during periods of drought, as per proposals being considered by the sector's regulator, Ofwat. This strategy is similar to surge pricing used by private hire firms, where fares increase during times of higher demand. The aim is to reduce water consumption.

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