As of April 2017, businesses in England can now choose who they buy their water from.
Businesses in Scotland and high volume users in England were already able to buy their water from a number of licensed providers, but now an open market in England has given every business the freedom and flexibility to choose a water supplier that best suits their own needs.
This is great news, as it means prices will now be more competitive and there will be improved customer service. In addition, businesses will have a choice of product options meaning your business can get the right products and services to suit your needs.
We've put together some useful guides and information to help you now that the English water market has opened and you can switch from your current supplier.
With the recent change in the market it might not be clear about what the next steps are for your business. We've put together this comprehensive guide to help you get up to speed and get your business sorted now the market has opened.
Download the buyers guide to water procurement (PDF download)
Not sure what to do first for your business to take advantage of the open water market? We've got you covered! Our deregulation checklist covers all industries so that you can understand what's most important for your business.
Download our deregulation checklist (PDF download).
What lies at the heart of the new regulations is the splitting of wholesale and retail water services. And if you’re wondering what the difference is, wholesale services cover the delivery of your water and the management of the infrastructure such as the pipe network and treatment plants. It also includes the removal and handling of wastewater. The changes in regulation allows the wholesaler to set the tariffs for these services.
Meanwhile the retail side relates to all the customer-facing activities including billing, meter readings, call centre support and water-efficiency advice. And these are the areas which benefit customers most in terms of competition.
Get to grips with all of the water industry jargon, download our glossary (PDF download).
For a whistle stop tour of deregulation and how may affect your business download our infographic (PDF download).
If you’d like to dig a bit deeper, here are some links to useful documents, research and industry websites:
Information about the open water market including details on wholesalers and retailers in England.
The economic regulator of the water sector in England and Wales.
The Market Operator delivers the capability needed to support the efficient operation of the new market.
Information about the open water market including details on wholesalers and retailers in Scotland.
Read the full policy document on how the government is making the water industry better for their customers.
The independent representative of household and business water consumers in England and Wales.
Like the energy industry the water business is changing through deregulation. Your water supplier will always be the same but you can choose your water retailer.
Read about business water market changes.
With the changes to the water industry following through from Scotland to England, it is time to review what you have.
Read about business water rates.
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