Water Supply as a Service of General Interest

Water is a common-pool resource that can be regarded as both inexhaustible and scarce. At present, access to clean, safe and affordable water must be managed not only to avoid waste, but also to ensure the continuous supply of a resource that is vital for public health. Furthermore, in recent years water-related activities have become an important part of the economy, and competition in the sector has become a reality in several States. In light of this, we will examine the regulatory framework at national level and discretionary ways in which public authorities regulate the sector in order to ensure that consumer needs are met.