Aptus Utilities Ltd’s Post

This is the clearest, most powerful, detailed explanation of the water issues we are facing in the US. Infrastructure related to stormwater, drinking water, wastewater and water pollution are all included as underfunded, behind in upgrades and posing a danger to public health and service delivery. "In fact, the nation’s unfunded clean water needs are numerous and growing." The $1 Trillion reported gap in funding is, according to the EPA, likely under estimated because of "because of data and reporting challenges, [and] lack of long-term planning by utilities and municipalities". Having a registry of the existing assets with their changing conditions can help public utilities better understand how to identify needs and gaps and further prioritize and plan so they can keep our rates as low as possible while still delivering the services the public expects. #Brightlysoftware #water #infrastructure

If you're pressed for time and want to know more about the Local Water Done Well water services reforms then I recommend this article from Newsroom: https://lnkd.in/gtga4P6M At the moment, I am most interested in what the role of Taumata Arowai is alongside regional councils and what their role is under the RMA. Here is an excerpt from the article below: "Taumata Arowai is the primary regulator for drinking water in Aotearoa, with an oversight role for wastewater and stormwater. Regional councils are the primary regulator for environmental standards for water services consents (water takes, wastewater and stormwater discharges). Taumata Arowai are about to consult on the introduction of wastewater standards, which are intended to simplify the reconsenting of wastewater discharges, and are a critical element in getting a national, consistent, efficient and affordable approach to treatment of wastewater." Does anyone know what these "wastewater standards" are? And how these relate to regional plans?? And the consenting process? And the sections of the RMA that relate to discharges?? Gillian Blythe perhaps you know what the relationship is going to be? #planning #compliance #freshwater #regulation #localgovernment

Have you ever considered the hidden value of water in your daily life? Thanks to a complex network of pipes, pumps, and treatment facilities, clean, safe water is readily available from the moment you turn on your faucet to flush the toilet. Our water and wastewater services are the unsung heroes of modern life, providing essential resources we often take for granted. It's crucial to recognize the true cost of water services. Despite misconceptions, tap water, wastewater, and stormwater are incredible bargains when you consider the infrastructure, treatment, and delivery involved. Investing in our water systems is vital for securing our future, as aging infrastructure poses risks such as service disruptions, contamination, and water loss. The American Society of Civil Engineers emphasizes the need for a $1 trillion investment in water infrastructure over the next 25 years. This investment is not just about maintaining the status quo but about ensuring reliability and preparing for the future. Water professionals work tirelessly to provide 24/7 service, respond to emergencies promptly, and ensure quality control through continuous monitoring. Let's appreciate the value of water and take steps to invest in our water systems, ensuring a reliable and sustainable future for all. #WaterInfrastructure #InvestInWater #ValueOfWater

When addressing aging water infrastructure, affordability and funding issues, it is important to think outside of the box and take a look at alternative governance and management structures.

Water UK shared an article stating English water companies are proposing a plan to remove 4 million spills from our rivers and coasts. This plan is currently under review by Ofwat before it can proceed. The plan involves a £10.2 billion investment, tripling the current target, this plan will specifically address overflows, of which there are over 14,000 in the UK. Improving these overflows will have a massive impact on the drainage of contaminated water when sewer systems are under pressure. If this plan is approved, the water companies assert that by 2050 they will eliminate more than 325,000 spills each year. The public and media scrutiny have brought significant attention to the situation, signalling a crucial first step towards better management of our water and drainage infrastructure. Do you think this is a step in the right direction or should water companies do more?

This article explores what is required in terms of water service provision, water security and wastewater management - a topic close to our hearts. There are myriad factors, ranging from aging or inadequate infrastructure to financial constraints, structured support from the private sector and the fact that there is no one-size fits all solution. It has be localised to the unique needs of each local municipality. And requires a committed focus and intent from all the stakeholders. #wastewatermanagement #watersecurity https://lnkd.in/dT4KCWtm

🚨 Important Update on UK Sewer Infrastructure 🚨 A recent study highlights critical gaps in the management and maintenance of sewer systems across the UK, raising serious questions about the future of our infrastructure and environmental sustainability. Key Points: •Data Shortage: There's a significant lack of detailed mapping and data on the condition of the sewer systems. For example, Thames Water, serving a quarter of the UK's population, reports that over 30% of its network remains unmapped. Similarly, Southern Water indicates about 40% of its network is undocumented. •Environmental and Financial Risks: This gap complicates efforts to reduce environmental spills and assess the financial scope needed for repairs and upgrades. Pollution campaigners stress that without a clear understanding of the system's state, both environmental and financial strategies remain on shaky ground. This situation calls for urgent attention and action to ensure the sustainability of sewer systems and safeguard environmental standards. The need for robust data and infrastructure assessment has never been more critical. #UKInfrastructure #EnvironmentalSustainability #UtilityManagement #PollutionControl https://lnkd.in/eF92w43C

Utilities must balance new water technology with practical needs when it comes to upgrading water and wastewater infrastructure. Here are some of the challenges and innovative water solutions.

Also add in the cost of lead service line replacement which will be in the billions.

Water companies in England and Wales are proposing significant increases in customer bills, ranging from 24% to 91% over the next five years, according to the CCW. The proposed increases are intended to fund investments worth £100 billion aimed at upgrading ageing infrastructure and reducing sewage discharges into the aquatic environment. https://lnkd.in/d_sSjgcj #WaterUtilities #WaterInfrastructure