Water bills in Wales will rise by 27% on average, reaching £639 by April 2024, with a total increase of 42% over five years.
Cardiff: Starting in April, water bills in Wales will jump significantly. The average bill will rise from £503 to £639, a 27% increase. This is just the beginning, as bills are expected to rise by 42% over the next five years.
Welsh Water Dwr Cymru, the largest water company in the area, will increase its average bill from £455 to £645 in five years. Other companies, like Hafren Dyfrdwy, are also raising their rates by 32% starting in April.
Welsh Water states that clean water will cost about £1.75 a day. They plan to invest over £4 billion in services, including £2.5 billion for environmental projects. This investment aims to reduce pollution and improve water quality.
However, a consumer group is concerned about the impact on families struggling to pay their bills. They urge for a new support system to help those in need, as many will find it harder to afford the increases.
The Consumer Council for Water suggests a unified support system for customers in Wales and England. They believe this would provide more assistance to those in Wales, where poverty rates are higher.
Over five years, the average bill will rise by £157, or 36%. The first year will see a steep increase of £86, or 20%. Welsh Water offers various support options for customers facing financial difficulties.
Currently, 150,000 customers benefit from Welsh Water’s social tariffs, which help limit their bills. They also provide specific support for low-income households and working families struggling to make ends meet.
One customer, Bianca from Cardiff, shared her experience. She saves over £280 a year through the WaterSure Wales scheme, which caps her bill. She encourages others to check if they qualify for help.
Welsh Water advises anyone having trouble paying their bills to reach out for assistance. They are committed to providing support to those in need.
Ofwat’s chief executive acknowledges the challenges many face with rising bills. He emphasizes the importance of companies stepping up their support for struggling customers.
A spokesperson for Welsh Water stated that while price increases are never welcome, they are necessary to keep up with inflation and fund essential investments.
WalesOnline has launched a WhatsApp community for breaking news and updates. Joining is easy, and you can opt out anytime.
