Residents of Figeac will face an 8.5% rise in water costs starting January 1, 2025, with annual subscription fees increasing from 32 to 58 euros. This change has caused concern among locals, as evidenced by their frustration over rising bills. Local businesses, including restaurants, are also feeling the impact. The town hall cites increased treatment costs due to pollutants and energy prices. Experts warn that this trend of rising water prices is expected to continue nationwide in France.
Rising Water Costs in Figeac: What Residents Need to Know
Everyday activities such as washing hands, taking showers, and filling pots are set to become more expensive for the residents of Figeac (Lot). Starting January 1, 2025, the cost of water will see an 8.5% increase per cubic meter, and the annual subscription fee will jump from 32 euros to 58 euros. This change is a significant concern for locals, as highlighted by our team during recent interviews.
Impact on Residents and Local Businesses
Magalie, a single mother, has calculated that if her water consumption remains unchanged, her bill will increase to 300 euros next year, representing an additional 50 euros. She expresses her frustration, saying, “We are very careful. My daughter has moved out, so I should be consuming less. But I don’t see how to reduce it more than that. Like with electricity and gas, we will monitor.”
Others share her sentiments. A couple walking through the city center voiced their dismay, stating, “It’s not normal for there to be such an increase, on the order of 70 to 80%. We are losing out every year and more and more.” Meanwhile, a retiree expressed concern about their fixed income, saying, “If this continues, we won’t be able to afford water or anything else.”
Local restaurateurs are also feeling the pinch. Alain Beaumont, who runs a traditional restaurant, anticipates a yearly increase of 100 euros. To mitigate costs, he is already taking measures like rinsing plates to minimize the frequency of water changes in the dishwasher. Beaumont adds, “We are not the type to pass these increases onto our customers. They shouldn’t have to bear the burden of our rising costs.”
The town hall attributes this increase to the rising expenses associated with water treatment. Mayor André Mellinger explains, “For a few years, we’ve noticed residual pollutants in the water, including pesticide residues. Coupled with rising energy costs, this has made treatment significantly more expensive.” Last year, the municipality advanced 100,000 euros to balance the budget, which they now hope to recoup.
Figeac’s situation is not unique. Experts predict a nationwide trend of rising water prices in France. Water economist Esther Crauser-Delbourg points out, “Water is becoming increasingly scarce and requires more treatment. Additionally, maintenance is crucial as we lose a lot of water through our networks, which incurs substantial costs.” Other cities, such as Orléans and Le Mans, are also planning rate increases starting January 1.