Denmark’s largest water supplier unprepared for future heatwaves

Denmark’s largest water utility, Hofor, has admitted it is not ready for the increasing frequency of heatwaves and extreme weather expected in the future, Politiken reports.

Hofor supplies drinking water to around one million people in the Copenhagen area. The company is now calling for stronger cooperation between the state, municipalities, and water suppliers to streamline approval processes for new wells and treatment plants, as well as upgrades to existing infrastructure.

Martin Rygaard, a drinking water expert at Hofor, said current regulatory procedures for expanding groundwater extraction or renewing permits can drag on for years, sometimes up to a decade.

“We need the process to be simpler and therefore faster,” he said.

Environment Minister Maria Reumert Gjerding (SF) responded in writing, stating that the government takes the issue of clean water shortages “very seriously.” She highlighted two priorities: banning pesticides in water-forming areas to prevent contamination, and addressing climate change and drought, which will make clean drinking water scarcer.

“Unfortunately, there are no simple solutions. I will enter into dialogue with water utilities as soon as possible to lay out a plan and find the best way forward,” the minister said.

During last week’s heatwave, Hofor urged residents in the capital region to conserve water. The utility faced unprecedented demand, struggling to keep up, Rygaard said.

“We experienced record-high water consumption in the Copenhagen area. It was so much that we had difficulty keeping pace.”

If another heatwave hits after the summer holidays, the system could again be strained, though Rygaard stressed there would not be a complete shortage. However, residents on upper floors might experience low water pressure or reduced flow from taps.

Hofor is currently upgrading its infrastructure to improve efficiency.