Every drop counts

ThamesWater has said it is aiming to have all homes switched to an electricity-style meter by 2030.

The company, that is responsible for the public water supply in most parts of the UK, declared that people in London use on average 10 per cent more water than elsewhere in the country.

Most Londoners currently pay flat rate for their water based on the rateable value of their home, with around a third of the households already on a meter.

These ‘smart meters’ connected to a wireless network would encourage households to monitor and cut back on unneeded forms of use, such as garden sprinklers.

Thames Water’s Richard Aylard said smart meters were the best value solution to bridge the gap between supply and demand.

The new scheme aims to cut Londoners’ water consumption by 12 per cent and will be rolled out across borough by borough, starting in Bexley next year.

At the same time, Thames Water will increase bills by up to 8 per cent all over the country, forcing an average family of four to face a bill of nearly £500 a year.

The Government is planning to tackle UK soaring water bills to help those on a low income, as consumers cannot switch their water supplier.

Prime Minister David Cameron said that his intention is to try to reduce the burdens on Britain’s ‘hard-pressed families’.

Opposition leader Ed Miliband was also concerned about Thames Water's plans, as householders may get a raw deal.

“I think the water industry is something that should be scrutinised”, Labour leader said.