The local government will minimize the rise in water charges caused by upcoming infrastructure upgrades by Acosol and the adjustment of the CPI by the service provider Hidralia, which has not been implemented since 2022. A new discount on water fees will be granted to vulnerable families, in addition to existing benefits for retirees, large families, associations, and victims of gender violence. The Estepona City Council announces that a review of drinking water supply rates will be approved in the upcoming council meeting to mitigate the impact of cost increases. To prevent a significant burden on users, the municipality has proposed measures to ensure that the rise in service expenses only translates to an average monthly increase of 1 euro for households. The deputy mayor of Services and External Control, Blas Ruzafa, highlighted the increase in water service costs due to infrastructure improvements by Acosol and the CPI adjustment by the service concessionaire, Hidralia, which has not been applied since 2022. The council has worked diligently in recent years to reduce service costs, implementing measures to enhance efficiency, resource management, and minimize losses. These efforts have led to a reduction in service expenses, shielding users from the full impact of the cost hike. Additionally, the council will introduce extended discounts for households struggling to pay water bills, including a zero price bonus for the first 7 cubic meters per month for vulnerable families with incomes below twice the IPREM. The Social Fund will continue to aid families facing water bill payment challenges. Proposed changes to the sewerage service ordinance to align with CPI adjustments will also be discussed in the council meeting. Furthermore, the review of water rates will include a new rate for users previously supplied with high water by Acosol until October, such as irrigation communities, at a lower cost than domestic and industrial rates.