When public water supply systems approach capacity limits, both public and private sectors have important roles to play.

As a result of increasing water supply demands, municipalities and water and sewer districts are implementing demand-side management programs to encourage water efficiency. Waste Reduction Partners (WRP) has worked with the Regional Water Authority of Asheville, Buncombe and Henderson (RWA), in their water efficiency program.  During the 1998-99 WNC drought, Waste Reduction Partners provided water efficiency assistance to 40 commercial and industrial clients, documenting over 90 million gallons per year in water savings.

Waste Reduction Partners can help organizations identify cost effective water efficiency measures.  WRP engineers follow an on-site assessment process outlined below.

·        Confirm that clients have management commitment to assess and implement water  efficiency measures.

·        Assemble a multi-disciplinary team of assessors to conduct the water use audit.

·        Collect background site information and records.  Complete water efficiency checklist.

·        Conduct on-site water audit.  Determine water balance and full-cost of water use including water heating, chemical treatment, pumping, on-site pretreatment, and related labor costs.

·        Applicable process equipment, heating and cooling, sanitary/domestic, kitchens, outdoor/landscaping, leak repair, and other facility support activities. 

·        Prepare confidential report that gives specific water efficiency recommendations, cost/benefit analysis, technical resources, vendor information, case studies, and educational program suggestions.

·        Follow-up with clients to assure progress and address any implementation obstacles.