ISSUES OF EFFICIENCY FOR PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS IN THE WATER SECTOR

Abstract

The water resources are critical for the economic development in a country or region, since the pollution and depletion of the waters are raising concerns for the environmental and economic efficiency of their management. This outlook calls for analysis on economic and financial issues and risks associated with specific investment projects in water supply and sanitation infrastructure WSS. In previous research outcomes we have shown successful models of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) used to manage and mitigate the risks and improve performance in providing the public services of Water Supply and Sanitation (WSS). The main objective of this paper is to reiterate the PPP as an efficient business model for the water sector, by employing several methodologies: literature review, case studies, performance indicators, analysis and synthesis. Some features and experiences of PPP in the water sector are resumed and analysed, considering recent developments and leading to conclusions and recommendations on their opportunity and efficiency in Romania.