Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Water Pricing

Question:

Assoc Prof Terence Ho: To ask the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment as non-domestic demand for water is expected to grow faster than domestic demand (a) what steps the Ministry will take to keep water affordable for households; and (b) whether industrial users ought to bear a larger share of the cost of expanding Singapore’s water supply.

Answer:

We price water to reflect the cost of supplying the next drop of water. This reflects its scarcity value where every drop of water is precious. Those who use more water, such as some industrial users, pay a larger water bill and thus bear a larger share of the costs.

The Government provides targeted support to those who may require assistance with their water bills. Eligible lower- and middle-income HDB households enjoy U-Save rebates to help offset utilities expenses. The Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme helps households make informed purchasing decision on water efficient appliances and fittings, which will reduce their overall water consumption and bills. Households can also tap on the $400 Climate Vouchers under the Climate Friendly Households Programme to offset such purchases.