Ofwat has called on water companies to embrace open data and wants to see “measurable progress” in delivering open data in the coming year.
The water regulator set out its case for making data freely available in a discussion paper that likened data, and the people, processes and technologies that support it, to the physical asset infrastructure the sector relies upon.
In its 2019 strategy, Time to Act Together, Ofwat included open data as a key driver of sector-wide change to meet long-term challenges and give greater public value to communities.
Its new report states there is a “huge untapped opportunity” held in data sources that could stimulate innovation and collaboration as well as provide insights into the performance and management of assets that can inform decisions.
Greater transparency through open data, Ofwat argued, would help build trust in water companies.
The paper said that currently very few companies offer open access to their data and none has gone much beyond what is required by law or regulation.
Lisa Commane, senior director at Ofwat said: “We need to unleash the untapped potential of open data and we’ve heard there is appetite for doing that. This can be done if the water sector works together to lead this work and to develop the skills, technology and culture we have heard are essential. We’re really looking forward to seeing how the sector responds over the next 12 months and the benefits it brings.”
Following engagement with water companies, consumer groups and the Open Data Institute, Ofwat highlighted what was necessary to make the most of shared data.
It called for strong visions and strategies – supported by senior leadership – at company and industry-wide levels to deliver open data.
Secondly, it said greater collaboration across the industry was essential to collect, share and use data to inform decision making and adapt to climate change.
Finally, it suggested establishing infrastructure featuring open and accessible datasets, technology, training and processes that collect, maintain and use data.
Yorkshire Water’s director of corporate affairs Richard Emmott noted how available data on wastewater discharges has sparked outrage and calls for greater investment at the next price review.
He said: “This sort of citizen regulation could be a very positive disruptor in the water sector and create real challenges for both economic and quality regulators.
“We welcome the fact that Ofwat has grasped the potential of open data and it’s important that companies take bold steps rather than be unduly cautious.”