A sudden spike in bills sparks public outrage
In autumn 2024, residents and business owners in Sant Hilari Sacalm, a small Catalan town, were stunned by their new water bills. In a region where water has always been considered its greatest asset, the amounts on the invoices multiplied several times over. For some families and businesses, payments soared from €200 to €680 per quarter, while others saw increases from €35 to €189. This triggered a wave of anger and mass protests in the streets.
The cause was a change in tariffs after the water supply system was brought under municipal control and a joint venture, Aigües de Sacalm, was created. The new company, 51% owned by the city and 49% by Agbar, was supposed to address problems caused by outdated infrastructure. However, instead of the expected improvements, residents faced unaffordable costs.
Roots of the conflict: how the crisis began
Sant Hilari Sacalm is famous for its springs—there are over a hundred—and the local water brands are recognized across Spain. Yet behind this apparent abundance, there have long been persistent problems with the town’s water supply network. Back in 2009, the private company Agbar was granted a monopoly to manage the system. This decision led to a drawn-out legal battle lasting nearly a decade. As a result, tariffs were frozen and investments in repairing the network all but stopped.
Over the years, the pipes deteriorated, and the drought only made matters worse. The authorities decided to set up a joint company to modernize the infrastructure and take control of management. But the transition proved painful: after Aigües de Sacalm launched in July 2024, residents received bills with unexpectedly high amounts.
Public reaction and the administration’s response
In response to the abrupt water price hike, people took to the streets. The city saw two mass protests, with participants demanding the mayor’s resignation and an immediate review of rates. Many simply refused to pay, sending their bills back.
The municipality admitted mistakes had been made during the switch to the new system. Officials promised to recalculate the tariffs, compensate those affected, and bring in an independent engineer to develop a fair billing plan. The most frustration was caused by the fixed part of the payment, which in some cases tripled regardless of actual usage.
Businesses under pressure and hopes for change
Local business owners found themselves in a particularly difficult position. The owner of a bar, who runs the establishment with his family, said their water costs had risen so much that the business was now at risk. Other restaurants and shops reported similar situations—with bills doubling or even more.
Elderly residents, families with children, and single city dwellers also complain about the unpredictability of the new rates. Many await the next quarterly bill with anxiety, fearing more surprises. A sense of distrust toward the administration’s promises prevails in the city.
Future plans and residents’ demands
The authorities have announced plans to revise the investment program and introduce a more gradual rate increase. There is talk of temporarily returning to previous rates until a new scheme is approved. Meanwhile, residents have united in a civic platform, demanding transparency and fairness in setting water prices.
For now, San Hilari Sacalm remains an example of how, even in regions rich in natural resources, failed reforms can lead to social tension and widespread discontent. Locals continue to fight for their rights, while officials seek a balance between investment needs and what residents can afford.
