Anglian Water bills rise: what are the key the challenges affecting improving water infrastructure?

The video discusses the significant investment in water companies since privatisation, noting that despite increased spending, environmental goals like clean beaches and rivers have not been met. This is due to agreed investment levels being lower than needed and water companies underinvesting by about 5%. Additionally, the financial model creates intergenerational challenges as current customers do not pay for today's investments, requiring companies to borrow or seek shareholder equity.

What has been the trend in investment by water companies since privatisation?

• Investment has decreased significantly.

• Investment has slightly increased.

• Investment has remained the same.

• Investment has almost doubled.

Why have the increased investments not resulted in cleaner beaches and rivers?

• There was no collaboration with environmental agencies.

• The technology used was outdated.

• The level of investment agreed upon was lower than needed.

• The investment was not directed towards environmental projects.

What is one reason water companies underinvest compared to what is allowed?

• They lack regulatory approval.

• They prioritize other sectors.

• They have excess funds.

• They face difficulties in raising necessary finance.

What is the intergenerational challenge faced by water companies?

• Balancing current investment with future payback.

• Reducing water wastage.

• Ensuring equal investment across all regions.

• Maintaining consistent water quality.

How do water companies plan to fund current investments?

• By increasing customer bills immediately.

• By borrowing or increasing shareholder equity.

• By reducing the quality of service.

• By cutting costs in other areas.