A panel of aggregate data from Spain is used to estimate domestic water demand functions under linear and non-linear tariffs. The use of intra-annual European data constitutes an innovative contribution. The average price per unit of water sold is compared with other price specifications that have been suggested to analyze aggregate data. Average-price elasticity estimates lie between -0.51 and -0.67 and are substantially larger than marginal-price elasticity estimates. Elasticities appear inversely correlated to the size of free allowances covered by minimum charges. Climatic variables seem to affect use, although less than in wealthier and drier areas.

Water demand, Water resources management, Water pricing.
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© IWA Publishing 2003
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