Competition and Economic Regulation in Water: The Future of the European Water Industry examines the fundamentals of water sector organisation. In light of the developments in thinking regarding natural monopolies and competition that have been so influential in other utility sectors, this book assesses and reviews the main developments in economic regulation and competition in the European water industry. It also addresses ways in which economic regulation and competition should be further developed in view of the European water industry's present structure. The book highlights the development of water sector regulation in three major European markets (England & Wales, France and Germany) that have had a great influence on international water sector policymakers. In doing so, the book develops and employs a common intellectual framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the regulatory regime in each country.Competition and Economic Regulation in Water: The Future of the European Water Industry will prove a unique and invaluable reference for water utilities, consultants, economic researchers, governments and policymakers who are dealing with the changing state of the water sector not just in Europe but also worldwide.