Anglian Water has launched the biggest water efficiency drive the region has ever seen.
“It’s a funny thing,” said Ciaran Nelson at Anglian Water, “but we actually want people to use less water, so we can charge them less.
“We’re serious about it. We don’t want customers to pay for a drop more than they use. Millions of people in the region are already seeing the benefits, but millions more could be saving money.”
The project will begin around Lincoln, Northampton, Peterborough, Colchester and Halstead in Essex. Over the next year, free water meters will be fitted to homes. It’s entirely the choice of the occupier if they wish to use the meter, but the majority of properties that do use one find they save money.
On average, household water bills drop by £100 a year with a water meter.
Ciaran continued, “Using less water also lowers electricity bills, which means you’re reducing your carbon footprint as well as the amount you pay for your water and electricity.
“In this region, being water efficient really matters. We actually get less rain each year than Jerusalem. We simply don’t get much rain.”
With 67 per cent of Anglian Water customers already metered and paying for exactly what they use, the region is already tuning in to water efficiency. Anglian Water will be fitting the meters in batches along roads, as this is the most efficient way to install them.
In August, the region celebrated 20 years without a hosepipe ban, despite several periods of drought and the region’s population having increased by almost a quarter over the same period.
Ciaran continued, “We’ve fought the leakage battle, helped our customers to make the most of the water they use, and been able to show that water efficiency really makes a difference.
“What’s needed in the future is more of the same. It’s a case of saving for a not-so-rainy day.”