Despite reassurances that water utility prices would remain stable, the Greek government is now paving the way for increases based on environmental, climate, geographical and social criteria.
The news comes after a joint ministerial decision published in the Government Gazette which outlines new rules for water pricing.
According to the new regulations, providers will be able to revise the cost of water usage based on consumption and apply different rates depending on region and social group.
The new charges are set to go into effect as of 2025.
Residents in areas affected more by the risk of drought will likely see their bills increase in the coming period. This includes Athens, which may soon face water shortages impacted by the extremely high temperatures, the lack of rain- and snowfall and recent forest fires which have depleted most of Attica’s woodland.
Although price hikes cannot exceed the average annual change of the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), compiled by ELSTAT for the previous calendar year, providers may implement larger increases in water service charges after receiving approval by the Regulatory Authority for Waste, Energy, and Water following an emergency request.
Under the new regulations, providers will also be able to apply a seasonal pricing system depending on demand.
Additionally, the rules also foresee changes to an environmental charge based on usage and conditions. The fee is collected by the water service providers through bills and distributed to the state.
The decision also foresees the installation of water meters in farm lands by 2026 and a provision for undetectable leaks.
Pricing will be lower for vulnerable groups, including large families.
Lastly, providers will be required to monitor water quality, post their updated invoices on their websites, provide consumers with a detailed description of their charges and updated information on the results of drinking water quality. Violations will be fined with up to 10 million euros.
Earlier this summer, To Vima English Edition revealed the looming water crisis affecting not only Athens but all of Greece. Indicatively, Greece is among the Top 25 most water-stressed countries in the world.
