Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 9 January 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 13 January 2026. It was answered by Emma Hardy (Labour) on Thursday, 15 January 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Energy: Prices

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions she has had with Ofwat on the adequacy of the transparency of pricing of seasonal tariff structures for water.

Answer

The Government supports the innovative approaches being taken to seasonal tariffs aiming to make bills more affordable and is engaging with industry leaders to drive further progress.

Ofwat called on companies to conduct charging trials, such as seasonal tariffs, aimed at supporting affordability and other sustainability goals such as reducing demand and have amended their charging rules to make it easier to conduct trials.

Companies can design their charges to provide benefits and incentives in a range of ways. Ofwat regulates charging trials by requiring companies to set fair charges for all customers, and ensure all trials are consistent with good practice principles.

There are several trials taking place, or planned, across all companies between now and 2030. These trials could benefit consumers by making water bills more affordable for more households. Companies must consult with the Consumer Council for Water in developing their trials to ensure that the appropriate safeguards are in place ensuring vulnerable consumers are adequately protected or excluded from the trials.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
104560
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Energy Prices Regulation
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk