The Critical Role of Water and Wastewater Agencies in Meeting California's Future Energy Needs

Martha Davis, Inland Empire Utilities Agency
Laurie Park, Navigant Consulting, Inc.

Keywords

Abstract

The 2005 Integrated Energy Policy Report prepared by the California Energy Commission (CEC) evaluated the relationship between energy and water resources in California “to better understand this link and determine what, if any, mutually beneficial strategies can be developed to improve both the water and energy sectors.” (CEC 2005) The CEC’s conclusion was that much can be done to improve both water and energy systems to reduce energy demand and to create new renewable energy supplies for the State.

However, relatively little information is available about actions taken by the water industries in California to address these issues. The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) is a municipal water and wastewater agency that serves about 800,000 residents within the west end of San Bernardino County. This paper describes the goals and strategies being implemented by IEUA to enhance the energy efficiency of its operations and of the water supplies used within its service area, as well as to generate new renewable supplies of power.

The direct benefits of IEUA’s programs include improved access to more reliable and cost effective sources of energy, and a reduced need for power from the State’s overburdened grid. Additionally, by reducing the “energy intensity” of its water supplies, IEUA is indirectly helping California reduce statewide energy demand, particularly during critical peak times. IEUA’s success in implementing these projects underscores the importance of the CEC’s focus on the water-energy nexus and the potential for water industries to play a significant role in reducing predicted energy supply shortfalls.