Firms urged to review water costs

Four private water suppliers have been licensed

Scotland's businesses are losing out by not reviewing their water supplier, according to the industry regulator.

A competitive market for water and sewerage was launched last April.

A report by the Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS) found two thirds of non-domestic customers had not reviewed their provider.

WICS said millions of pounds worth of savings were not being realised. It is now urging businesses to get the best deal available to them.

Out of pocket

About 130,000 companies, councils, schools and other public bodies are also able to choose from four newly-licensed water suppliers.

Publicly-owned utility Scottish Water was previously the sole supplier.

It has retained control of Scotland's network of pipes, sewers and treatment works.

Competing companies can now buy water from Scottish Water at a fixed price, before selling it on to customers.

WICS chief executive Alan Sutherland said: "Businesses are being left out of pocket by failing to explore the new choices open to them.

"Switching supplier or renegotiating your business' existing package is a straightforward way to reduce water your water bills, and given the economic circumstances, there's never been a better time to explore the options."

All firms and public bodies, including hospitals and schools became eligible to switch water supplier from April 2008.

The introduction of competition into the water industry has resulted in overall savings of �4m, WICS said.

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