The latest water industry leakage figures reveal that almost a fifth of water supply in England was lost to leaks on the public network during 2023-24.
Data compiled by the Environment Agency from each water company’s annual performance reports found 19 percent of supply leaked away.
Although a pretty shocking figure, it represents a 10 percent reduction from 2017-18 leakage levels and 4 percent compared to the previous 12 month period for 2022-23.
In terms of actual litreage, 2,689 million litres of water were lost per day – representing the lowest leakage levels in over two decades. Yet this still falls above forecasts outlined in the Water Resource Management Plans (WRMPs) of utility suppliers.
It also leaves the industry struggling to meet future targets, including a 16 percent reduction from 2017-18 levels by March 2025 set by Ofwat.
Looking longer term, Water UK – the trade association representing all water and wastewater companies in the United Kingdom – committed to halving leakage by 2050 from the 2017-18 baseline.
The amount of water lost to leaks on the public water network in England varied significantly across companies. Embattled Thames Water was identified by the Environment Agency as having the worst leakage rates on a per-person basis, losing 54 litres every day for each of its customers.
At the other end of the scale, Essex and Suffolk Water lost 24.9 litres per day for its approximate 1.8 million customers.
The Environment Agency said in its report that water companies must deliver sustained reduction in leakage, especially with climate change and a growing population certain to increase demand for water.
It is estimated five billion extra litres will be needed every day by 2050. The shortfall can only be met through improving and increasing resources, reducing how much water is used per person and protecting supplies.
More effective leak detection and faster response to repair burst and leaking pipes can help with the latter. Innovative solutions like epoxy repair putty, self-amalgamating tapes and composite bandages are already reducing leakage levels by tackling complex leaks which cannot be sealed using traditional clamps.
As for reducing how much water is used, the report criticised some water companies for being behind on programmes to install water metres.
Metres can have a key influence on reducing household water use, which the Environment Agency say is currently much higher than it should be.
The report also had concerns over future drought events. The above-average rainfall across winter and summer meant 2023-24 was not impacted by drought-related supply issues. Had it been a normal period for rain, several companies would not have had enough water to meet demand.
Environment Agency chairman Alan Lovell said: “In the face of the enormous challenges on water resources, we have to tackle both sides of the equation – reducing demand and increasing supply.”
“While we’ve seen some progress by companies, it’s clear that more planning, resources and investment are needed, particularly on leakage.”
“We expect water companies to accelerate their plans to increase water efficiency, reduce leakage and prepare for future droughts.”
“We will continue to work closely with Ofwat and Defra to hold water companies accountable and ensure they deliver on their commitments to protect our environment and secure our water supply for future generations.”
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