Ways to Help Low-Income Customers of Water Systems

The affordability of utilities, especially of essential utilities like water, is a concern of much discussion among utility operators, regulators, policy makers and financial assistance providers. It is particularly difficult to balance the need to have rates that support the full cost of the service while still providing essential services to low-income persons. There is upward pressure on water rates because of inflation, especially in construction materials prices, new regulations and aging infrastructure. Here are some strategies for dealing with this issue.