“It takes a lot of energy to pump and treat water – about 2 or 3%of the world’s energy consumption,” said Alliance President Kateri Callahan. “As a result, clean water is often inaccessible in energy-poor countries – and that’s where the Alliance’s Watergy program comes in.”
Domestic Watergy Program Underway
After being implemented around the world since 1997, Watergy has gone stateside in Bucks County, Pa., where local officials have turned to the Alliance to help maximize energy-saving measures to combat rising energy, water and sewer bills. The county anticipates annual savings of 25%, or $400,000.
Watergy Delivers Water and Energy Savings
The Alliance coined the term Watergy to describe the strong link between water and energy in municipal water distribution and wastewater treatment systems. The program helps cities realize significant energy, water and monetary savings through measures such as improved pumping systems, leak management, automation of system operations and regular monitoring.
Especially in developing countries, the payoffs – including immediate improvements in water service, increased water delivery, water and energy savings, more revenue for system upgrades and new customer connections – have relatively brief payback periods, ranging from a few months to a few years.
“World Water Day recognizes that climate change will aggravate water scarcity, in turn jeopardizing crops and livestock,” observed Alliance Vice President for International Programs Laura Van Wie McGrory. “Energy efficiency can help, because reductions in energy use also reduce the emissions that contribute to climate change. The Alliance to Save Energy is pleased that as we pursue our mission, we also advance the goals of World Water Day.”
