Expert viewpoints

Associate Martin Hurst makes the case for more, and meaningful, flexibility in the Price Review (PR24) process in the water sector, and considers what options might exist. This feature first appeared in The Water Report. We would welcome views on this feature for future engagement - please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Read more

There is a received wisdom in orthodox economics and treasury theology that argues against governments ‘picking winners’. The classic example that this is not a good idea would be Concorde – a winner ‘picked’ by the UK and French governments which went massively overbudget, and never succeeded in claiming more than a very small niche market with few commercial spin-offs.  

The Mail on Sunday's recent article “Hard-up customers of energy firm OVO hit with shock emails telling them to pay hundreds of pounds in unexpected charges[1]” is a stark reminder of two glaring problems in the energy industry. Firstly, Ofgem needs to deliver on its promise to strengthen back-billing protections for customers. Secondly, smart meters need to deliver on their promise of accurate bills.

As part of its Review of Economic Regulation the government is considering reforming the appeals process for regulated utilities. This collection of articles written over a five-year period provides a blow by blow commentary by Maxine Frerk on appeals that have taken place across energy and water – drawing out lessons and bringing to life issues that government has raised.

Read more

Search