EBRD boosts role of private industry in east European water sector

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is investing up to EUR 80 million equity to help raise the quality of water supply and waste water operations across Eastern Europe. The EBRD is buying a stake in Aqualia New Europe, a Dutch company set up to invest in water concessions and acquire other privately-held water groups in the EBRD region. Aqualia, a subsidiary of Spanish group FCC, will be the majority shareholder.