However, the discussion is progressively moving away from the level (or the methodology of calculation) of the charge towards the different elements to be reflected in it and the necessary investments. In Europe, measures such as fines and sanctions for illegal abstraction and pollution do not yet represent a strong incentive for complying with / avoiding these activities: e.g. in Spain to prosecute illegal water abstractions is difficult due to the complexity of administrative procedure; in France sanctions are very low and do not incentivise changes in polluters behaviour, since revenues from those polluting activities are greater (EEA, 2013). As enforcement implies substantial transaction costs due to the inspections, it is key to define how it is carried out, when, towards whom and what are the consequences in terms of bringing additional revenues and taking the water quantity and quality situation under control.