On the heels of its comprehensive report on strategic directions for the electric utility industry, Black & Veatch has just released results from its survey of water utility leaders in the U.S. The findings outlined in Strategic Directions in the U.S. Water Utility Industry Report are bleak at best – aging infrastructure, capital costs and future funding uncertainties.

The survey, which was conducted in February and March, identifies top challenges in the water and wastewater industry. Among the key findings:

·         Issues that drive investment or cost are the top concerns among water utility leaders. Aging infrastructure is the most pressing concern within the industry.

·         More than 75 percent of respondents have taken measures to reduce energy consumption within their utility operations. Electricity used to produce water can account for as much as 30 percent of water utility budgets.

·         More than half of survey respondents stated they are implementing asset management improvement programs.

·         85 percent of respondents said average water consumers have little-to-no understanding of the gap between rates paid and the cost of providing water and wastewater services.

“Overcoming today’s challenges requires a significant change in how utilities develop and implement strategic and capital plans,” said John Chevrette, President of Black & Veatch’s management consulting division. “At the same time, consumers must better understand that water and wastewater services are not free or low cost. Rather, these are services that must be paid for in an equitable and responsible manner, helping consumers better realize the value of both the service and the resource.”

Click for a copy of the report >>

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