Householders could be facing water charges of between €250 and €400 per year within the next three years.
Reports today suggest a flat rate charge is being ruled out as it would not encourage householders to conserve water.
A report in today's Irish Times says the Department of the Environment has refused to comment on a possible cost to residents.
Political Correspondent with the paper - Deaglan de Breadun - said Minister Phil Hogan hoped to have meters installed in most homes by the end of 2014, and in all homes by the end of 2015.