Public-Private Partnerships in Europe Revolutionize Efficiency in Water Utilities
Mixed public-private enterprises in Europe, like Italian water utilities, are becoming more common. These entities are jointly owned by the public and private sector. The main idea is that this ownership structure can lead to better performance and less risk of private companies taking advantage. By having the public sector as the owner, they can gather more information about how the company is run. This can help regulators ensure that the private partner is efficient and meeting their obligations. The board of directors of these mixed enterprises can help resolve any conflicts that arise. The goal is to find a balance between public and private interests to ensure fair decision-making. The researchers suggest that under certain conditions, these mixed enterprises can improve communication and efficiency in regulated industries like water utilities.