THE Essential Services Commission (ESC) has announced its approval of Barwon Water\u2019s prices for the next five years, ensuring a reliable, secure and affordable water future for the Barwon region.<\/p>\n
The ESC has approved Barwon Water\u2019s proposal for no bill increases in 2018\/19 (except for inflation) while continuing to invest in areas customers said were important to them.<\/p>\n
This includes helping more people in hardship, helping customers save water and reducing impacts on the environment through greater use of recycled water and renewable energy.<\/p>\n
The commission rated Barwon Water\u2019s price submission as \u2018advanced\u2019, noting it will deliver better value for customers.<\/p>\n
It also acknowledged Barwon Water\u2019s strong commitment to controlling costs, delivering one of the highest efficiency targets in the water sector, expected to save $26 million over the next five years.<\/p>\n
Barwon Water managing director Tracey Slatter welcomed the ESC\u2019s determination.<\/p>\n
\u201cCustomers can be reassured that through our strong discipline of saving $26 million in our operating costs over the next five years we will be able to keep our bills stable and low.<\/p>\n
\u201cBarwon Water already has one of the lowest bills in Australia for a water company of our size. Nationally, we are in the lowest 10 per cent for major water corporation bills and this next price period should see this continue.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we are committed to reducing our operating costs, at the same time we are also aiming to improve our service to customers.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will deliver the outcomes our customers\u2019 value, such as a large capital works program \u2013 securing our water supplies \u2013 environmental improvements, switching to more sustainable and cost effective energy sources and supporting those facing hardship.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe outcomes, actions and prices we are committed to over the next five years are the direct result of extensive engagement with our customers over the past 18 months.\u201d<\/p>\n
She said that over the past five years, Barwon Water\u2019s prices had reduced 7.6 per cent (excluding inflation). By the end of this new pricing period, the average bill for a residential owner occupier will be $1,038 – $163 less than in 2013.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE Essential Services Commission (ESC) has announced its approval of Barwon Water\u2019s prices for the next five years, ensuring a reliable, secure and affordable water future for the Barwon region. The ESC has approved Barwon Water\u2019s proposal for no bill increases in 2018\/19 (except for inflation) while continuing to invest in areas customers said were […]<\/p>\n