Measures to significantly reduce levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as 'forever chemicals', in Jersey's water supply could lead to substantial costs and a considerable rise in household bills. A final report from an independent scientific advisory panel has recommended stricter limits for these chemicals in drinking water, moving beyond current UK guidelines.
Jersey Water, the island's utility provider, has indicated that implementing the panel's recommendations could involve an investment exceeding £200 million. Helier Smith, the company's chief executive, stated that constructing a new treatment plant, if deemed necessary, could cost up to £210 million. This expenditure, he warned, could translate into a 70% to 110% increase in customer water bills, potentially making Jersey's water among the most expensive globally.
The PFAS Scientific Advisory Panel's report advocates for a maximum limit of four nanograms per litre of PFAS in drinking water. This is a significantly stricter standard than the current UK guidance of 10 nanograms per litre, which Jersey Water presently adheres to. The panel argued that the UK guidance is impractical for the island and that a specific, local definition for PFAS levels is required. PFAS chemicals are known for their persistence in the environment and have been associated with serious health conditions, including certain cancers.
The presence of PFAS in Jersey's water supplies has been traced back to the early 1990s, when firefighting foam containing these chemicals was used at the airport's fire training ground, subsequently leaking into surrounding areas and private borehole water supplies. Last year, it emerged that the extent of contamination was greater than initially understood. Campaign groups, such as Water Awareness Jersey, are pressing for swifter action and have raised concerns that the financial burden of the clean-up could unfairly fall on taxpayers.
Environment Minister Senator Mary Le Hegarat confirmed that ministers are working to fully understand the report's findings and the implications for the island. A detailed, evidence-based government response is anticipated later this year. Deputy Hilary Jeune, head of the Environment Scrutiny Panel, has urged the government to clearly communicate how it plans to balance the health risks to islanders with the substantial costs of proposed solutions. While Jersey Water maintains that the island's water is safe to drink, it acknowledges the need for a robust framework to manage PFAS.
Ian Cousins, the panel's environmental expert, has suggested that Jersey Water's cost estimates might be an 'exaggeration'. He highlighted that in other locations, measures to tackle PFAS have been implemented within three to five years, and the panel's own cost calculations were based on retrofitting existing water treatment plants rather than constructing entirely new facilities.