From 1 January 2024, water bills for average Jersey households will increase by 12 pence per day.
Announced today by Jersey Water, the change in tariff for next year is in line with inflation (June 2023: 10.9%) and represents an extra £44.91 a year for average domestic customers.
2024’s tariff follows the utility’s policy of limiting increases in water charges, wherever possible, to at or below the cost of living. This is a commitment that Jersey Water has maintained for all but three of the past 20 years, during which time the cost of water in real terms has reduced by 19%.
However, like many businesses, Jersey Water has been incurring significant increases in the cost of materials, labour, power and finance, brought about by macro-economic factors beyond its control.
Helier Smith, Jersey Water’s Chief Executive, says 2024’s tariff increase is proportionate and necessary to address these rising operational costs, while also ensuring the company can maintain vital investment in the Island’s water supply infrastructure:
“We remain mindful that many Islanders are also experiencing pressure on their own cost of living, so we have done all we can to offset the increases in our operational costs and limit what is passed onto our customers. At the same time, we need to maintain our water charges at appropriate levels to ensure Jersey Water can continue to deliver the high-quality water supply and service levels that customers expect, whilst maintaining investment in the Island’s water resources, network, treatment facilities and other infrastructure to ensure a sustainable water supply for current and future generations.”
Jersey Water has committed to making no further price increases before 1 January 2025.
Any customers who are facing financial hardship and are struggling to pay their water bills are encouraged to contact Jersey Water’s Customer Services team who are on hand to provide advice and guidance.
Any Islanders who wish to reduce their water consumption to help manage their bills can find more information and free water saving devices on Jersey Water’s website, where you can also download the GetWaterFit app, a helpful online tool for finding out how you use and can save water at home: www.jerseywater.je