Water utility news covering municipal water systems, infrastructure investment, drought response, rates, and drinking water quality.
UK MPs debated the future of England's water sector following an e-petition with over 200,000 signatures calling for public ownership. While no referendum was triggered, Water Minister Emma Hardy acknowledged financial instability and pollution issues, confirming plans for tougher regulation amid widespread criticism of the private model.
Thames Water has amended its blueprint for a planned mega-reservoir in Oxfordshire, with estimated costs rising from £2.2bn to between £5.5bn and £7.5bn after the site size tripled. The utility aims to submit a planning application by late 2026, facing continued local opposition and criticism over underestimating expenses.
The City of Reno and Truckee Meadows Water Authority have commenced construction on a new Advanced Purified Water Facility in North Valleys. The plant will treat roughly 2 million gallons of wastewater daily to drinking-water standards using an ozone biological activated carbon process, supported by $128 million in state financing.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded Georgia nearly $500 million in federal funding to strengthen water systems impacted by Hurricane Helene. Governor Brian Kemp announced the money will be administered by the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority to support drinking water and wastewater improvements.