Helier Smith, CEO of Jersey Water, spoke at this month’s Jersey Chamber of Commerce lunch, where he shared the company’s ambitious five-year strategy and urged the community to unite in protecting the Island’s most essential resource.
Mr Smith addressed business leaders, government representatives, and islanders. He highlighted the major investments needed to ensure Jersey’s water future amid climate change, population growth, and changing water quality standards. The £48 million spend over five years on critical infrastructure includes £26 million for the desalination plant extension and £2 million for PFAS treatment trials.
Mr Smith explained that this programme will be funded through an increase in water charges of around £5 per month for the average household from January 2026. He stressed that Jersey Water is mindful of the pressures households face and that any customer experiencing financial hardship should reach out to the company’s customer service team for support.
The speech strongly resonated with the audience and led to a lively Q&A session. Attendees asked about the price increase, PFAS, pesticides, and practical ways to save water. The discussion emphasised the importance of water conservation, especially since the Island’s reservoirs are below the five-year average following a dry summer and below average rainfall so far this autumn.
Mr Smith encouraged Islanders to see water conservation as a shared responsibility:
‘At Jersey Water, we’re planning and investing for the long term. But securing our Island’s water future is a challenge we must all rise to, together. Whether it’s turning off the tap, reducing hosepipe use, or adopting other simple water-saving habits, collective actions really do make a difference. It’s our water, our future, and our responsibility.’
Audience members received the presentation positively, with many feeling they left with a deeper understanding of Jersey Water’s role and a greater awareness of the challenges ahead.
Jersey Water is calling on all Islanders to take part in safeguarding water resources by adopting water-saving behaviours, making use of the company’s “Get Water Fit” app, and engaging in conversations about how Jersey can become more water resilient.
