Competition within the Scottish Non-Domestic Water Market
Competition within the Scottish non-domestic water market was introduced on 1 April 2008. Under the terms of the Water Services etc (Scotland) Act 2005, business customers are now free to choose a licensed water/sewerage provider (or “supplier”) to supply water and sewerage services.
Suppliers currently operating in Scotland include:
- Business Stream
- Satec
- Osprey
- Ondeo
- Aimera
- Self-supply – water supplied directly by Scottish Water but no other services provided such as meter reading
The new competition framework, designed by the Water Industry Commission for Scotland aims to be simple and fair, and to provide non-domestic customers with greater choice and opportunities:
- Negotiate competitive rates
- Improved customer service
- Tailored solutions
- Advice and support on water efficiency
Waterwatch Scotland responds to the Water Industry Commission’s consultations on behalf of non-domestic customers in respect of how the water market will operate.
Waterwatch Scotland has powers to deal with enquiries and complaints against all suppliers.
To find out more about competition, here are some useful links:
The Water Industry Commission for Scotland will publish a full report into the introduction of water competition in Scotland early 2009.