1 week ago
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Thames Water has launched an appeal to allow it to increase its bills by more than the regulator will allow it.
The UK's largest utility company is calling on the UK competition regulator to overturn a decision from the regulator, Ofwat, which caps bill rises at 35% over the next five years.
Thames, which is in severe financial difficulties already, is also waiting for the courts to approve a £3bn rescue from investors.
But in the longer run, the company says bills also need to rise by more than the regulator has suggested to cover the costs of investing in water infrastructure.
The company, which provides water services in the south-east of England said the appeal was "in the interests of our customers and the environment".
Other water companies are also permitted to lodge appeals, against bill settlements, which are specific for each utility company.
Thames is the first to have done so, while six others have said they will not appeal: Severn Trent, United Utilities, Pennon plus Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, SES and Hafren.
