American Water Works Association Energy Management for Water Utilities

Energy costs are a large portion of the operational budget for water and wastewater utilities, second only to staffing. This handbook provides information and insight into energy management strategies that can reduce operational costs, increase operational efficiencies, and develop a more sustainable infrastructure. Following the popular plan-do-act-check framework, this book provides an overview of key steps in developing and implementing an energy management program. The importance of establishing an energy team, benchmarking energy use, performing audits, and using economic analysis tools to prioritize is discussed. The authors also summarize the wide variety of management measures that can be used to reduce energy use and associated costs, including operational improvements, water efficiency strategies, and asset management programs. Paying particular attention to pumping, the book describes how motor assessment and maintenance can improve energy efficiency. Renewable energy options--solar, wind, and microhydro technologies-are discussed as are external funding sources and innovative financing methods including energy performance contracting and leasing options.