Introduction: Understanding the Open Water Market
Since April 2017, the UK’s water market has been deregulated, allowing businesses, charities, and public sector organisations to choose their water supplier—just like they do for gas and electricity. This change is known as the Open Water Market, and it gives companies more control over costs, services, and sustainability.
At ScaleX Technology, we help businesses navigate utility markets, and in this guide, we’ll explain:
✔ How the Open Water Market works
✔ Who can switch suppliers?
✔ Benefits of switching
✔ How to find the best deal
1. What is the Open Water Market?
The Open Water Market (or Business Water Retail Market) is the competitive marketplace where businesses in England and Scotland can:
✅ Choose their water retailer (not the actual water provider)
✅ Compare tariffs to get better prices
✅ Bundle services (water + wastewater + trade effluent)
✅ Access water-saving solutions (smart meters, leak detection)
💡 Key Fact:
- Scotland has had a competitive water market since 2008.
- England followed in 2017, but Wales & Northern Ireland remain regulated (no switching allowed).
2. Who Can Switch Water Suppliers?
✅ Eligible Organisations:
✔ Businesses (small, medium, or large)
✔ Charities
✔ Public sector bodies (schools, hospitals, councils)
✔ Non-profits
❌ Who CAN’T Switch?
- Households (residential customers still use regional monopolies)
- Businesses in Wales & Northern Ireland
3. Benefits of Switching Water Suppliers
| Advantage | How It Helps Your Business |
|---|---|
| Lower Bills | Save up to 20% by switching |
| Better Customer Service | Choose a retailer with 24/7 support |
| Water Efficiency Advice | Get audits to reduce waste |
| Flexible Contracts | No long-term lock-ins |
| Bundled Services | Combine water + energy for discounts |
4. How Does Switching Work?
Step 1: Compare Suppliers
- Use Ofwat-approved brokers (e.g., AquaSwitch, The Water Retail Company)
- Check reviews on Trustpilot
Step 2: Choose a Retailer
- Some top UK business water retailers:
- Business Stream
- Castle Water
- Wave Utilities
- Anglian Water Business
Step 3: New Supplier Handles the Switch
- No service interruption (same pipes, different billing)
- Switch takes 4-6 weeks
5. What to Look for in a Water Supplier
✔ Price per m³ (cubic metre)
✔ Fixed vs. variable tariffs
✔ Additional services (leak detection, smart meters)
✔ Green water options (sustainability initiatives)
✔ Exit fees (avoid long-term traps)
6. Common Myths About the Open Water Market
❌ “Switching is complicated” → It’s handled by the new supplier.
❌ “Only big businesses save money” → Even small firms can cut costs.
❌ “Water quality changes” → The local wholesaler still supplies water.
7. Future Trends in Business Water
- Smart water meters (real-time usage tracking)
- AI leak detection (prevents waste & high bills)
- Water neutrality schemes (for eco-conscious firms)
Conclusion: Should Your Business Switch?
If you’re in England or Scotland, switching water suppliers could mean lower bills, better service, and water savings. The process is quick, risk-free, and could cut overheads.
At ScaleX Technology, we help businesses compare water suppliers and optimise utility costs.
📞 Contact us today for a free water audit!
