Households in England and Wales will see their water bills rise by at least 20 per cent by 2030 to fix the “twin crisis” of pollution and shortages.
The proposed bill rises would begin to take effect from April next year.
Figures released by Ofwat in October revealed water companies had subsequently asked to increase bills by even more than they originally requested.
The latest requests by firms would see the average consumer bill in England and Wales rise by 40% between now and 2030, costing £615 per year.
Southern Water wants to be allowed to increase bills by 84%, while scandal-hit Thames Water wants Ofwat to approve a 53 per cent hike.
Thames Water has been handed an £18.2 million penalty for breaking dividend payment rules, regulator Ofwat said.
