Strong year planned to drive £48m investment in water upgrades

Jersey Water says it is well placed to begin a £48m programme of investment in its water network over the next five years after reporting a sharp rise in profits.

In its latest annual report, the company revealed turnover increased by 8.4% to almost £22.9m, while profits more than doubled to £1.97m, up from £0.94m the previous year.

The firm said the strong financial performance would help fund major infrastructure improvements, as it continues to face growing pressure from dry weather and the island’s vulnerability to drought.

Jersey Water warned that water resilience remains a key challenge, following one of the driest periods on record. Its desalination plant continued operating into December, and work is under way on a long-term drought management plan aimed at strengthening supply across the network.

Plans to improve resilience include expanding the desalination facility, which converts seawater into drinking water, to help safeguard supplies during prolonged dry spells.

Chief executive Helier Smith said the results demonstrated “clear progress” and provided a solid platform for investment through to 2030.

He said maintaining profitability was essential to fund upgrades while continuing day-to-day operations and delivering returns for shareholders.

Mr Smith added that price rises introduced in January would help support the investment programme and ensure the continued supply of safe, clean drinking water for islanders.