Welsh Water customers given say over company's spending

Credit: PA

Welsh Water has become the first utility company in the UK to give its customers the chance to decide how their potential profit should be spent.

With around three million customers and tens of millions of pounds of potential profit, the company is today launching its 'Have Your Say' campaign.

The 10-week consultation will offer customers the chance, through their website, to help the board prioritise where to spend any financial gains.

The not-for-profit water and sewerage company is projected to make around £30 million in gains next year.

Customers will be able to choose which way that money should be split by choosing from a range of options, including:

  • Money off water and sewerage bills

  • Extra help for people who struggle to pay bills

  • Investment in pipes, pumps and water treatment works

  • Investment in renewable energy sources

  • Support for educational and recreational projects

Last month, the company announced it was investing an extra £32 million into its services this year, and to help lower-income homes after it recorded its best year in overall performance since becoming not-for- profit in 2001.