Characteristics of well-performing public water utilities

This report presents findings on attributes of well-run public utilities and attempts to identify important factors that influence their performance. The scope is largely oriented to utilities that serve urban communities, but with varying characteristics and service objectives. The findings of were derived from field research of public utility cases, a desk review of literature, and surveying operational experience from sector professionals. The paper is divided into four main sections: Sections 2 and 3 deal primarily with the presentation of findings from the individual case studies. Section 4 draws lessons learned and additional observations from the case findings as well as from existing literature, one-on-one interviews and consultations at workshops. Section 5 lists a number of actions to improve the manner in which governments exercise their ownership function at both the central and local government levels. The report is intended for policy makers in central and local governments but can be also useful to utility managers as well as sector professionals supporting utilities and governments.