On Monday May 4th, Miya Water, a world leader in water management efficiency, in partnership with the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA), organised a webinar to discuss how the Caribbean countries, and particularly the water industry, are weathering the challenges of COVID-19. The webinar, directed towards water and wastewater personnel operating in the utility sector, was followed live by more than 140 people.
Aranzazu Mencia Saeta, VP Business Development for Almar Water Solutions talked about BOT, PPP projects worldwide and how they are being affected by COVID-19. Looking into the future, BOT and PPP financing models have been tabled as potential solutions to build new infrastructure or improve existing one, being as it is that water is and will always be a critical sector, which has to be in good shape to overcome this pandemic or anything else that may come in the future, explained Ms Mencía. She outlined the different types of contracting models. A first factor driving the increase in PPP projects is population growth, demanding quality water and waste water services, together with public players seeking financial alternatives. The new players coming in are private companies, who offer extensive know-how, innovation and efficiency, and risk management, and the financial sector. Ms Mencía talked about key factors for the success of a PPP. Concerning the consequences of the pandemic, the spread of COVID-19 is generating unprecedented delays, disruptions and uncertainty in construction projects. She concluded emphasising that “water access is now more crucial than ever”.
