The Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS) has weighed in on the future of water regulation in England and Wales, responding to the Independent Water Commission’s call for evidence with a confident showcase of Scotland’s publicly owned model.
While the Commission’s review is aimed at reforming water governance south of the border—where privatised companies have faced mounting criticism over sewage discharges, executive bonuses, and rising bills—WICS emphasised the benefits of Scotland’s distinct approach: public ownership, ethical regulation, and long-term investment.
At the centre of Scotland’s system is Scottish Water, a publicly owned but commercially operated utility regulated independently by WICS. Since 2002, it has consistently invested more per capita than any other UK water company, while maintaining some of the UK’s lowest water charges.
“Many of the most significant challenges we face are shared: climate resilience, ageing infrastructure, public trust and affordability,” said David Satti, WICS’ Interim CEO. “We welcome the Commission’s commitment to considering a wide range of perspectives and approaches, and we’re pleased to contribute insights from Scotland’s experience.”
What WICS Highlighted
WICS’ contribution came via two dedicated sessions with the Commission’s Secretariat—one on governance and regulatory structure, and another on the non-household retail market, which operates competitively in Scotland.
Key elements of the Scottish model highlighted include:
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Clear governance and separation of regulatory and delivery functions
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A Strategic Review of Charges aligned with Ethical Business Practice and Regulation (EBP&R)
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Public ownership designed to prioritise long-term infrastructure investment
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A competitive non-household retail market, with standards shaped by a jointly agreed Code of Practice
WICS pointed to Scottish Water’s strong customer satisfaction scores—frequently among the best in the UK—as evidence that the model delivers both affordability and performance. The UK Customer Satisfaction Index has consistently placed Scottish Water near the top of its rankings.
A Model for Reform?
Scotland’s water governance has come under increasing spotlight in Westminster circles, as public frustration mounts over England’s privatised utilities. The Independent Water Commission, established to review the future of the sector in England and Wales, is gathering evidence from across the UK and beyond.
WICS said it was “pleased to contribute” to this cross-border dialogue and hopes that lessons from the Scottish experience may inform broader reforms.
Its recently published final methodology for the 2027–33 Strategic Review of Charges also offers further technical detail on how its regulatory system balances investment needs with customer affordability.
