EPCOR's Partnerships

 
EPCOR is one of the largest and most experienced water companies in Canada, providing services to over one million people living in 60 communities.

We have a broad range of expertise in the areas of water and wastewater treatment, distribution, maintenance, and management, which we can bring to communities through Public-Private Partnership Agreements.
 

What are public-private partnerships (P3s)?

• A P3 is a cooperative venture between the public and private sector, built on the expertise of each partner. Usually the private partner takes on some or many of the project risks and roles historically assumed by governments.
• In infrastructure projects (like water or wastewater treatment plants) a typical P3 model involves the private sector leading the design, construction and operation of the system over a long-term contract for pre-determined annual payments. Contracts are typically 10-20 years. The private sector partner may also finance the project, but the project often remains under public ownership.
• The primary benefit of a P3 to a community is a guaranteed price for a guaranteed service level over a set period of time.
• P3s can be used in a variety of situations. EPCOR’s interest is in the area of Water Services – including water treatment plants, water distribution systems and wastewater treatment facilities.
   

What kind of communities could benefit from a P3?

• Those needing to expand their infrastructure
• Communities that need to meet new or emerging regulatory standards
• Those that have reached their debt limits or where funds are required in other core service areas
• Lack of in-house expertise and/or budget to fund initial studies
  Communities needing projects completed on short timelines
   

What is the difference between privatization and P3?

• A P3 is not privatization. Privatization is where a product or service is turned over to the private sector and it is totally market-driven.
• A P3 brings together the expertise of the public and private sector. The infrastructure often remains publicly owned, and the performance of the private partner is governed both by contractual terms and public regulation.