The regulated water industry refers to the sector responsible for managing and providing water and wastewater services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. This industry is subject to strict regulation and oversight by government agencies, ensuring that water supply and wastewater management meet quality, safety, and environmental standards. Key aspects of the regulated water industry include water supply, wastewater treatment, and environmental protection.

1. Water supply: The regulated water industry provides clean, safe, and reliable drinking water to customers. Water supply involves a series of processes, including water extraction from natural sources (such as rivers, lakes, or underground aquifers), treatment to remove contaminants and ensure quality, and distribution through a network of pipes and infrastructure.
2. Wastewater treatment: This aspect of the industry is responsible for collecting, treating, and disposing of wastewater generated by households, businesses, and industries. Wastewater treatment plants remove contaminants, such as pathogens, chemicals, and suspended solids, before discharging the treated water back into the environment or reusing it for non-potable purposes.
3. Environmental protection: The regulated water industry plays a crucial role in protecting water resources and the environment. Regulations and oversight ensure that water quality standards are maintained, and that water use and wastewater discharges do not have adverse effects on ecosystems, aquatic life, or human health.

In many countries, the regulated water industry is a combination of public and private entities. Public utilities, owned and operated by local, regional, or national governments, are responsible for providing water and wastewater services to a specific area. Private companies can also be involved in this sector, either through ownership and operation of water utilities, or by providing specialized services, such as water treatment technologies, infrastructure development, or consulting services.

Regulatory agencies overseeing the water industry vary by country or region but typically include entities responsible for setting water quality standards, monitoring compliance, issuing permits, and enforcing regulations. Examples of such agencies include the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States and the Environment Agency in the United Kingdom. These agencies work closely with water utilities and other stakeholders to ensure that the industry operates in an environmentally responsible manner, while providing safe and reliable water and wastewater services to the public.

• American Water Works
• Essential Utilities
• American States Water
• California Water Services
• SJW Group
• Middlesex Water
• Aris Water Solutions