The Challenge
To reduce potable water demand in the non-residential sector in a least-cost fashion
The Solution
Partner with Wellington Water to deliver tailored water efficiency assessments directly to non-residential users
The Impact
Our assessments helped 20 high-water-use clients reduce their consumption by 10-60%, saving over $3 million annually and cutting non-residential demand by 6%
Project Summary
To respond to Wellington's immediate and future water security challenges, several programs were established by Wellington Water on topics such as:
Awa’s unique combination of water efficiency expertise, international experience and analytical skill sets allowed Awa to support the non-residential water efficiency program. Awa worked with Wellington Water and high-water intensity non-residential (commercial, industrial, institutional) customers to complete these key activities:
The innovative method Awa used for water efficiency assessments allowed focus on delivering a rapid financial return on investment to the non-residential customers. By applying this comprehensive water efficiency opportunity assessment method, Awa produced a report outlining the current efficiency of each water end use (e.g. toilets, cooling towers, filter backwashing etc.) and recommendations linked to rebate incentives for improving efficiency. Only measures offering full and rapid return on investment (to the customer) were put forward. Each recommendation is characterised by the customer benefits including water and other cost savings.
The top 20 high-intensity water users who have been subject to the comprehensive water efficiency assessment make up only 0.2 % of non-residential customers. However, they consume 25% of the total non-residential water consumption. Through the assessment, they have reduced their water use by 10-60%, which achieved an overall 1.86 ML/d reduction in water demand. This is equivalent to a reduction of 6% of total non-residential demand and amounts to savings of over $3 million per year for customers in water bills.
The non-residential water efficiency program continues to deliver water savings for the water service provider and cost savings to the customers. The program is helping Wellington Water achieve its demand reduction target and is a key contributor to ensuring a least cost approach to sustainable water supply.
Endorsement by Patrick Homan – Associate Director Asset Management, Te Herenga Waka (Victoria University of Wellington)
The University is pleased with the outcome of the water efficiency assessment that was completed by Awa Environmental. The process was highly collaborative, ensuring alignment with our strategic goals and the thoroughness of the assessment provided a deep insight into our water usage across our campus buildings and student accommodation.
The report and associated recommendations highlighted practical and innovative opportunities to significantly reduce water consumption, while achieving cost savings. These opportunities, many of which we would not have identified internally, are both actionable and economical.
The detailed presentation of cost and water savings projections will be key in the development of a business case for any investment. The assessment not only supports our financial objectives but also our commitment to sustainability and the environment at the University.