Water Energy Nexus

Water is needed for energy generation and energy is needed for water supply. Reductions in one have a direct impact on the other.  As individuals and companies worldwide endeavor to reduce their carbon footprints, including water resources as part of the equation will ensure the sustainable development of renewable energies. In addition, municipal water supply and wastewater treatment facilities have an opportunity to contribute to CO2 emission reductions through better water resource management and ensure water availability in the face of increasing demand and an uncertain climate future.

Water for Energy

powerlinecircleIn the United States an average of 1/2 Gallon of water is used for every kW of electricity generated. This is because 90% of US energy is produced by thermoelectric power plants which use enormous amounts of water for cooling.  Some proposed renewable energies such as wind and PV solar do not use water or emit CO2. However, there are other 'clean energies' that do not emit CO2 but use even more water than coal fired plants:  including types of concentrated solar power, nuclear, and geothermal energy .  With this in mind we are advocating that decisions about the types of alternative energies implemented should take into account the impact on local water resources, and then select the 'Right Renewables'.

Energy for Water
toiletcircleEvery drop of water we use takes energy to pump, treat and distribute. Once in our homes we again use energy to heat, filter and soften water. Then energy is needed to treat the waste water once it leaves our homes. Approximately 40% of Municipal Energy Needs are used for water supply and waste water treatment.  This energy needed for water supply and wastewater treatment emits CO2.  Therefore water utilities, wastewater treatment facilities, businesses and the public have an opportunity to contribute to long term CO2 emissions reductions through better water resource management and water conservation.  Learm more about the energy use involved in meeting our water needs through our Water Resource Managment for Energy Conservation (WRMEC) program. 

Conserving Energy Conserves Water!