Public water without (public) financial mediation? Remunicipalizing water in Valladolid, Spain

Abstract

[EN] We discuss the water remunicipalization process in the city of Valladolid (Spain), focusing specifically on its public financing model. Valladolid water remunicipalization has been a politically driven process, but implemented and managed in a technical way, through a public 100% municipality-owned company. As we show, it does not require the additional participation of financial intermediaries, public or private. The Valladolid remuni- cipalization process has been largely successful, with efficient financial and technical management, including some equity and environmental considerations, although it is not free from finan- cial challenges that could cause it to totter in the future.