Águas do Ribatejo (AR) has invested, in recent years, over 170 million euros in the water supply and sanitation systems of the seven municipalities that make up the intermunicipal company: Almeirim, Alpiarça, Benavente, Chamusca, Coruche, Salvaterra de Magos, and Torres Novas. These investments, considered "invisible" to the eyes of citizens, were deemed fundamental for the development of the region and for the quality of life of the populations.
AR has continuously improved the quality of services provided and operational, water, and energy efficiency. The results are visible in service coverage levels, water quality, loss reduction, and energy production from renewable sources. The company manages water and sanitation in a territory of 3,200 km² that stretches from Porto Alto to Fungalvaz, localities separated by 110 km.
The decision of the seven municipalities to join together in a single Managing Entity, maintaining the municipal matrix and proximity to citizens, proved to be the right one. AR's sustainability is based on a single and socially fair tariff system, balanced management, valuing human resources, and creating economies of scale. Cohesion and solidarity among municipalities are pillars of sustainable water management and ecosystem protection.
Thanks to this model, AR has improved the quality of life of 140,000 consumers and strengthened the resilience of territories against extreme phenomena such as droughts or floods. The article was written by Sónia Sanfona, Chair of the Board of Directors of Águas do Ribatejo, E.I.M., S.A.
