PART 3Scottish Water’s functions

Exercise of functions

23Value of water resources

In section 25 (Scottish Water’s general powers) of the 2002 Act, after subsection (1) there is inserted—

“(1A)

Subsection (1) extends to allowing Scottish Water to engage in any activity that it considers will assist in the development of the value of Scotland’s water resources (as construed in accordance with section 1 of the Water Resources (Scotland) Act 2013).”.

24Development of assets

After section 50 of the 2002 Act there is inserted—

“50ADevelopment of assets

(1)

So far as it considers is not inconsistent with the economic, efficient and effective exercise of its functions, Scottish Water must take reasonable steps to develop the commercial value of its assets and expertise.

(2)

In complying with subsection (1), Scottish Water must have regard to any guidance for the time being issued by the Scottish Ministers.

(3)

In this section, “assets” means property, rights and other assets (whether tangible or intangible).”.

25Supporting renewable energy

After section 51 of the 2002 Act there is inserted—

“51ASupporting renewable energy

(1)

So far as it considers is not inconsistent with the economic, efficient and effective exercise of its functions, Scottish Water must take reasonable steps to promote the use of its assets for the generation of renewable energy.

(2)

In complying with subsection (1), Scottish Water must have regard to any guidance for the time being issued by the Scottish Ministers.

(3)

In this section, “assets” means property, rights and other assets (whether tangible or intangible).”.

26Meaning of core functions

In section 70 (interpretation) of the 2002 Act, for subsection (2) there is substituted—

“(2)

In this Act, the references to core functions in relation to Scottish Water are to its functions under or by virtue of—

(a)

the 1968 Act and the 1980 Act,

(b)

any other enactment (including this Act) so far as relating to the provision of water or sewerage services in Scotland.”.