The water firm said current trading is in line with expectations for the year ending 31 March 2013 and remains on course to deliver its 2010-15 regulatory outperformance targets. It also expects to invest at least £750 million in 2012/13, up from £680 million in the previous year.
United Utilities said underlying net finance expense for 2012/13 is expected to be “moderately” lower than last year, reflecting the impact of lower retail price index (RPI) inflation.
Group net debt at the end of the financial year is also expected to be higher than at 30 September 2012. It said this reflects expenditure on the regulatory capital investment programme, payment of 2012/13 interim dividend and payments in relation to interest and tax, largely offset by operating cash flows.
The water company will announce its full year results in May.