South West Water to trial a tariff reflecting consumption rates in Barnstaple

South West Water is to trial a new water efficiency tariff, which it said would also support fairer charging.

From 1 April and for two years, a selection of customers in the Barnstaple area of Devon will be charged a cheaper rate for low consumption use, and higher rates for higher consumption. South West will provide advice and free water-saving devices to those taking part. It estimated 90% of customers on the Smart Saver tariff will see a bill cut.

This is the second of four tariff trials South West Water will run ahead of the start of the new regulatory period in April 2025. The first tariff trial began on 1 February and will see all household customers in Cornwall receive a credit up to £30 on their bill if the county collectively reduces its water consumption by 30 April 2024.

The other two trials are due to be announced later this year.