Ofwat
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Ofwat is the Water Services Regulation Authority for England and Wales. It is the economic regulator of the water and sewerage sectors in those parts of the UK. Ofwat exercises its powers to protect the interests of consumers, promote value and safeguard future water and sewerage services by allowing efficient companies to carry out and finance their functions properly.
[edit] History
The formation of Ofwat came as a result of The Water Act of 1989 which brought about the privatisation of 10 publicly owned water and sewerage authorities. This resulted in the creation of the Drinking Water Inspectorate (the regulator of drinking water quality) and the Director General of Water Services (the economic regulator), which was supported by the Office of Water Services (Ofwat).
In 2006, these entities were replaced by the Water Services Regulation Authority. This organisation retained the name, Ofwat. It is financed through licence fees recovered from the water companies and it reports to Parliament.
[edit] Operations
The duties and powers of Ofwat are defined by sections 2 and 3 of the Water Industry Act 1991 (as amended). Under section 2 of the Act, Ofwat is responsible for carrying out numerous duties, including:
- Protecting the interests of consumers, wherever appropriate, by promoting effective competition.
- Ensuring water companies carry out their statutory functions properly.
- Ensuring water companies can finance the proper execution of their statutory functions.
- Ensuring water supply licensees and sewerage licensees properly carry out their licensed activities and statutory functions.
- Advancing the long-term resilience of water companies’ water supply and wastewater systems.
In addition to these duties, the organisation seeks to promote economy and efficiency while contributing to the achievement of sustainable development.
[edit] External links
https://www.ofwat.gov.uk/investigation-into-sewage-treatment-works/
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- BS 8680:2020 Water quality. Water Safety Plans. Code of practice.
- Charging rules.
- Consumer Council for Water CCWater.
- Drainage and sewerage management plans DSMPs.
- Drinking Water Inspectorate.
- Drinking water quality.
- Drinking Water Quality Regulator for Scotland DWQR.
- Incumbent water company v undertaker.
- Sewerage company.
- Utilities for construction and operation.
- Water Act 2014.
- Water derogation.
- Water Industry Act 1991.
- Water Industry (Scotland) Act 2002.
- Water management strategies.
- Water pressure.
- Water UK.
- What the new retail market will mean for the water sector.
- Why innovation is needed in the water sector.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.