Impact of Conservation on Rates and Operating Costs
Publication: Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management
Volume 111, Issue 2
Abstract
The potential impact of 20% reduction in water usage through water conservation is investigated for a small investor owned utility serving the rural residential community of Stewartstown Borough, Pennsylvania. The analysis of short‐term impact shows that the average bill would be reduced by 16% if rates had not been changed; however, the company's operating expenses would only have been reduced by 2%. The long‐range impact is investigated using present worth analysis, A 20% reduction in water use would have saved $71,280 in present worth (1976) for storage and source facilities and operating costs. The savings in capital and O&M costs would eventually translate into savings in water bills of the customers over the years.
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Copyright © 1985 ASCE.
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Published online: Apr 1, 1985
Published in print: Apr 1985
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