Water Industry Report 2017

About This Report
Last year’s Black & Veatch Strategic Directions: Water Industry Report
called for widespread industry collaboration to overcome concerns
about costs and customer demand. Since the 2016 report, increased
levels of focus on sustainability and the role of data are showing
promise as answers to the years-long conflicts between our aging
infrastructure and a safe, resilient water supply.
For the first time, we asked water providers exactly how aging
infrastructure was affecting their operations. Capital costs,
unbudgeted emergency work and operational costs predictably
came out on top. The report examines how data analytics,
consumer education on infrastructure modernization and a
more comprehensive view of sustainability are helping water
utilities gain ground on these challenges.
Valuable lessons have also been learned on the urgency of
addressing lead service lines and alternative water supply. Finding
efficiencies, incorporating integrated planning and making educated
technology investments are being tied into better data management.
A much-needed merge of data into water system operations could
similarly explain a change in perspective on asset maintenance,
financial viability, budgets, water conservation and water loss.
How water providers explore and embrace these shifts can help
cities more holistically manage water’s role in their communities.
We welcome your questions and comments regarding this
report and/or Black & Veatch services. You can reach us at
MediaInfo@bv.com.
The Reporter HERE