Business Briefing

Background

The regulatory regime for the water industry is becoming much harsher - the Draft Determination on price limits shows a reduction in water bills over AMP5 (2010-2015) and capital investment levels significantly lower than some water companies had been seeking. Customer expectations are rising and legislative demands increasing. All this against the backdrop of the current economic recession making obtaining finance for the water companies more difficult.

The ownership of the water companies is continuing to change (Veolia is seeking to sell its UK holding) and new players are entering the market.

The Periodic Review process is drawing to a close in both England and Wales as well as Scotland. The Final Determination is due in November 2009. Capital investment in England and Wales is predicted to be £21 billion roughly similar to AMP4. In Northern Ireland the new GoCo is settling down and expenditure plans are being prepared.

The business briefing has been designed to keep you abreast of developments in the water industry and help identify the emerging opportunities for your company.

Why now?

Change continues at a rapid pace in the water industry. The new regulatory period, AMP5, is about to start. Although, on the face of it, all water companies have the same goals, thinking of them as a homogeneous entity is unhelpful and misleading. All the water utilities are seeking the most efficient, and (in most cases) profitable ways of delivering their AMP5 programmes they are all calling for different things. Behind this diversity lies a wide variety of procurement stratgeies currently employed by water companies. Understanding these differences and what they mean is vital to success in this rewarding business sector.By understanding the drivers for changes such as these future developments and opportunities can be predicted.

Benefits

• keep abreast of changes to legislation and regulatory policy
• gain an "external" perspective on issues affecting the water industry
• understand the implications of Government policy decisions
• support your strategic planning process
• identify opportunities for technical innovation
• its an opportunity for your management team to debate the way forward

The style

A concise briefing, specific to the needs of your company. The duration and style can be tailored to suit your requirements. Perhaps a formal presentation to your board is required or an interactive debate on the industries investment plans.
Alternatively training sessions can be run for new members of your team. Full hand outs will of course be provided.

The briefings are designed to be both time and cost effective with prices from £500.

The way forward

Please contact us now discuss your needs.