The Association of Waterworks in Denmark

The majority of waterworks in Denmark are organized as cooperatives. Therefore, the consumers themselves own and operate the water supply, and all members have an influence on the operation, administration, pricing and future development of the waterwork.

Danske Vandværker is the Association of Waterworks in Denmark. Our purpose is to promote the views and interests of the water cooperatives to the public, the authorities and the politicians. Through the membership of Danske Vandværker the water supplies receive:

• Legal advice of any kind regarding water supply.
• Insurance for the waterworks.
• Access to special expos, where a broad range of companies within the water sector present the newest technology in the industry.
• Access to special courses, educations and training programs.
• Information about water supply via web, magazine, e-mail and web-tv.
• Assistance and advice on accounting.

Facts about the water supply in Denmark

• There are approx. 1.800 water cooperatives in Denmark that are members of our organization.
• They account for about 40% of the total amount of water abstraction in Denmark.
• Two million people receive water from a consumer-owned water company.
• Half of all properties in Denmark receive water from a consumer-owned waterwork.
• The number of households connected to a waterwork varies from 10 and up to 20,000.
• The average size of the waterworks’ supply area is 400-600 households.
• They typically cover a village, a minor township or a number of households.

Strategy, mission and vision

Towards 2025 we are working on new ways to benefit our members by strengthening our organization.

Vision

We want to:

• Be known as the leading democratic, member-based association for waterworks.
• Leave our mark on the green transition, innovation and digital solutions through national partnerships and local networks.
• Contribute to higher quality requirements for our water supply and continue to strengthen competencies within the industry.
• Make it attractive to engage in the local water supply.

Mission

We educate and advise water cooperatives. Furthermore, we work to preserve their political and professional interests. By doing so, we create the best conditions for our waterworks to deliver high-quality drinking water for their consumers. Both now and in the future.

Four strategic tracks

Based on the identified opportunities and challenges, we created four strategic tracks and targets that we will be working to achieve towards 2025.

Track 1: Support for cooperatives

Track 2: Quality conscious and competent water supply

Track 3: Stronger operation and dialogue through digitalization

Track 4: Green transition – now and in the future