Water Use & Efficiency

In the United States, per-capita water use has been declining since the 1980s, largely due to efficiency improvements from product standards, codes, and third-party certification programs. Federal and state regulations also impact water use. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 restricted water use in common household fixtures and appliances to save energy. The recent drought in California resulted in Senate Bill 606 and Assembly Bill 1668, which limit indoor water use to 55 gallons per person per day until 2025.

Water efficiency is an important way to increase a utilities’ water supply reliability, decrease the capital costs of building a new supply, and ultimately reduce treatment and distribution costs. Because water use trends will continue to change, utilities should be aware of and track the drivers of water use so they can plan appropriately for their service area. In addition, integrating water loss control activities and plans with broader institutional goals and objectives can further enhance water supply reliability, increase revenue generation, and accurately account for water usage.