Environmental Compliance

Ofwat Responds to CMA's Final Water Price Control Decisions

Ofwat has responded to the Competition and Markets Authority's (CMA) final decision on price controls for five water companies. The response acknowledges the CMA's work and indicates that Ofwat will consider these decisions for future price reviews.

Ofwat investigates Dŵr Cymru sewage spills and network harm

Ofwat has opened an enforcement investigation into Dŵr Cymru for alleged breaches related to sewage treatment works and network management, leading to environmental harm. The company has proposed undertakings valued at £44.72m, including a redress package, in lieu of a £40.6 million financial penalty.

Ofwat Proposes £44.7m Enforcement for Wastewater Failures

Ofwat has proposed a £44.7 million enforcement package for Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water due to serious and unacceptable breaches in operating and maintaining its wastewater treatment works and network. This proposed action follows a consultation period, with a final decision pending.

OFWAT Investigation into Castle Water Dispute

The UK's water regulator, OFWAT, has opened an investigation into Castle Water following a complaint regarding a water market dispute. The investigation is being conducted under section 17E of the Water Industry Act 1991.

Ofwat Proposes £22m Fine for South East Water Supply Failures

Ofwat has proposed a £22 million fine for South East Water following an investigation into repeated supply failures between 2020 and 2023. The failures affected over 286,000 customers and were attributed to inadequate planning, poor infrastructure maintenance, and a lack of resilience. A public consultation on the proposed fine is now open.

DEC Advises Caution in Adirondacks and Catskills Due to Dynamic Conditions

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued an advisory urging extreme caution for recreationists in the Adirondack and Catskill backcountry regions. Dynamic conditions, including washed-out bridges, flooding, and unstable snowpack, pose significant risks, prompting the DEC to recommend reconsidering or adjusting outdoor plans.

PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on Pipeline Incident Reporting

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an advisory bulletin regarding pipeline incident reporting rules. This notice clarifies requirements for reporting incidents to the National Response Center.

Hazardous Materials Special Permits Granted/Denied

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a notice regarding actions taken on hazardous materials special permits. One public comment was received concerning these actions.

PHMSA Announces 2026 Pipeline Safety R&D Forum

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has announced its 2026 Pipeline Safety Research and Development Forum. The event will take place from March 31 to April 1, 2026. Public input on research gaps can be submitted year-round.

Pipeline Safety: Sable Offshore Seeks Special Permit for Deviation

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a notice regarding a request for a special permit by Sable Offshore Corp. for a pipeline safety deviation. The notice is open for public comment until March 26, 2026.