Pennon latest to apply for business retail licence

Pennon this week was the latest to join the list of water companies applying for a water and sewerage supply licence. The Exeter-based South West Water parent's application takes the total since the application process began in April to seven including retail arms from four incumbent water firms.

Applications so far in date order are:

• Castle Water

• Clear Business Water

• Cobalt Water

• Northumbrian Water's business retail arm, NWG Business

• Thames Water's business retail operation Thames Water Commercial Services

• Business Stream and

• Pennon Water Group Services.