Southern Water provides water services to two million customers and wastewater services to more than four million customers in Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The majority (68 per cent) of Southern Water’s supply comes from groundwater, predominantly from the chalk aquifer which is widespread across the region. A further 28 per cent comes from rivers and the remaining four per cent from surface water reservoirs owned by the company.

The water we take from rivers and aquifers is regulated by the Environment Agency through a permit system to ensure there is enough water available for plants and wildlife.

Because of the predominance of groundwater sources, rainfall during autumn and winter is critical to the availability of water resources across the region. The impact of dry autumns and winters on the region’s resources was highlighted during the 2004/06 drought.

Everyday we are working to ensure these resources are managed carefully to keep you supplied with water. Find out more.