Proactive Investors - Utilities regulator Ofwat is ramping up its investigation into allegedly unauthorised sewage emissions by Thames Water and other water-treatment firms.
In a Tuesday press statement, Thames Water disclosed that Ofwat “has now reached the next stage of its investigation” into the group’s management of sewage.
The regulator began investigating Britain’s water providers following public outcry over the dumping of sewage into rivers and waterways.
In April, Labour accused ministers of turning Britain’s coastline and rivers into “open sewers” after it analysed data on dumping released by the Environment Agency (EA).
Thames Water boss Sarah Bentley stepped down in June after giving up a bonus due to the poor environmental performance of London’s water and sewage provider.
Bosses at Yorkshire Water and South West Water's parent Pennon Group PLC (LON:PNN) also forwent bonuses.
Ofwat is now considering the imposition of fines on companies found in breach of regulatory standards.
As part of its enforcement strategy, the regulator can fine guilty parties up to 10% of their relevant turnover.
In today’s press statement, Thames Water said it “continues to co-operate fully with Ofwat's investigation, is considering the initial findings in detail and may make representations to Ofwat in due course”.