Ofwat serves as the economic regulator for the water sector in England and Wales, overseeing both the financial health and operational conduct of water companies. Its mandate is to guarantee that these firms deliver high‑quality services at prices that remain fair to consumers while still allowing necessary investment in infrastructure and service improvements. By setting maximum price limits, Ofwat balances the interests of users, the environment, and the industry itself.
In addition to pricing oversight, Ofwat continually monitors company performance, enforcing standards and applying penalties when required. Its overarching objective is to sustain affordable water services, encourage competition, and foster innovation within the sector.