A Comparative Analysis of Water Service Delivery in Germany and South Africa

Water is a vital resource for human existence on earth. The importance of this resource to the wellbeingof mankind and the general scarcity of drinking water which is expected to grow requires thepublic to reflect on the best ways to address demand and supply issues. Therefore, the discourse onwater service delivery is an important one in virtually all countries around the world. The aim of thisdiscussion paper is to analyze relevant issues and trends in the public water delivery sector inGermany. The paper begins with analyzing the demand for water in Germany and highlighting somekey trends. Important determinants of water supply are subsequently described. This implies a look atthe institutions involved in determining the supply of water, and a reflection on key economic issuesand factors. The public and private perspective on price setting for water is finally discussed. Thepaper will be concluded with a short discussion and presentation of key findings...