System Operators in the England and Wales Water Industry: Lessons from US and EU Energy Industry Experience

This paper examines the experience of system operators in the electricity and gas industries in the US and the EU and draws lessons for the reform of the England and Wales water supply industry. The main conclusion is that ITSOs (independent transmission system operators) are the most effective type of system operator and provide the largest benefits to consumers. It is argued that regional ITSOs are also likely to be the most appropriate long-run form of system operator for the England and Wales water supply industry, not least because they would best encourage upstream competition and bulk water trading.