WATERLOO WEMP UPDATE TECHNICAL MEMO #2

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W

ATERLOO

WEMP

U

PDATE

T

ECHNICAL

M

EMO

#2

C

OMMERCIAL

,

I

NDUSTRIAL

,

AND

I

NSTITUTIONAL

(CII)

S

TATUS

R

EPORT

May 2013

Technical Memo #2: Final Report

Prepared by Lura Consulting & Econics for the Region of Waterloo

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This report was prepared by Lura Consulting and Econics on behalf of the Region of Waterloo. If you have any questions or comments regarding the information included in this report, please contact:

Steve Gombos,

Manager, Water Efficiency, Region of Waterloo 519-575-4503;

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update i

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Water Demand in the Top 10 Water Consumers, by CII Sub-Sector ... 5

Figure 2: Water Demand of Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors That Have the Most Numerous Accounts... 6

Figure 3: Water Demand in Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors with Highest Average Demand per Account ... 7

Figure 4: Water Demand in Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors with Greatest Per-Account Demand Increases Over 5 Years... 8

Figure 5: Water Demand in Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors with Greatest Water Use Variance Between 2006 and 2011 ... 9

Figure 6: Commercial and Industrial Business Use in Sydney (2004-2008) ... 15

Figure 7: Water Management Hierarchy (Sydney Water Case Study) ... 15

Figure 8: Screenshot from EDC Online (Sydney Water Case Study) ... 16

Figure 9: Volume of Water Supplied: Commercial Municipal and Industrial – City West Water (ML) 20 Figure 10: Screen Shot of CCWD Irrigation Calculator (Contra Costa Case Study) ... 31

Figure 11: Smart Wash Car Wash Decal and Coupon (Contra Costa Case Study)... 32 Figure 12: Decision-Making Framework for Targeting CII Communications and Program Elements . Error! Bookmark not defined.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 1

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

The Region of Waterloo has had a long history with water conservation programming. In the commercial, industrial and institutional (CII) sectors this has included a water efficient fixtures rebate program implemented in the 1980s, creation of the “Saving Water - It’s Everybody’s Business” auditing manual and training program in the 1990s, initiation of a Large Volume Users Audit Training Program in early 2000s, and launch of the Water Efficient Technology (W.E.T) Program, which has become the Region’s flagship CII program.

The W.E.T. program was created in 2008 under the Water Efficiency Master Plan (WEMP) to help businesses and institutions reduce their water use and save money. It offers a range of incentives to non-residential and multi-family customers, including:

 On-site services provided at no cost by Region staff, such as on-site water use reviews and consulting, installing data-logging equipment, and retrofitting small fixtures at no cost (e.g., spray valves, showerheads, aerators);

 Toilet replacement rebates ($20 for 4.8L gravity-fed HETs; $150 toward replacement of flush valve models);

 $150 rebates toward purchases of commercial-grade front load clothes washers;

 Spray valve replacement program for dish washing sinks in restaurants, care homes, supermarkets and other food processing facilities (570 such valves were replaced between 2004 and 2012);

 Cost sharing with businesses that hire qualified consultants to conduct in-depth water audits; and

 Funding for a broad range of water efficiency technologies that reduce consumption, targeted especially for larger water users.

The W.E.T. program also incorporates educational resources, such as print and online material, the Water Smart Business Workshop (last conducted in 2010), and case studies of organizations that have successfully improved their water process efficiencies. In 2009 an annual CII Water Efficiency

Excellence Award was established to recognize exemplary water reduction projects. It includes a plaque, formal presentation, and public recognition in various media. The four businesses that have been recognized with this award since its inception include Toyota (2009), Marsland Centre Ltd (2010), Babcock and Wilcox (2011), and Suds Express (2012).

The W.E.T. program is well developed by national standards, and includes a wide range of elements to appeal to the diverse businesses and institutions that make up the Region’s CII sector – ranging from auto shops to hospitals to multi-unit shopping centres to large manufacturing facilities. However, there may be opportunities to fine-tune or add to the W.E.T. program, for example by providing more targeted water efficiency messaging and programming to specific sub-sectors.

As part of the 2013 Region of Waterloo Water Efficiency Master Plan Update, the purpose of this report is to analyze the current status of water consumption in the Region of Waterloo’s CII sector. The analysis explores challenges, opportunities and potential paths forward for further water efficiency improvements in the Region’s CII sector to inform subsequent phases of the 2013 WEMP Update.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 2 1.2 Objectives

The primary objectives of this report are to:

 Gain an understanding of current water use in the CII sector;

 Gather perspectives from the CII sector towards water conservation and water efficiency challenges and opportunities;

 Review best practices in CII sectors in other jurisdictions, to explore components and ideas that may be applicable to the Region of Waterloo; and

 Inform an assessment of where the Region of Waterloo can or should modify CII programs and services in the next phases of the WEMP Update.

1.3 Report Outline

This CII Status Report has been organized into the following sections:

 Section 2: Approach – description of the quantitative and qualitative analyses used to fulfill the report objectives;

 Section 3: CII Water Use Trends – results of the quantitative demand analysis;

 Section 4: Perspectives from CII Sector Representatives – feedback obtained from representatives of the Region’s commercial, institutional and industrial sectors;

 Section 5: Best Practices in the CII Sector – case studies of CII sector best practices in North America and Australia; and

 Section 6: Implications and Next Steps – a discussion of implications and findings regarding CII water use, opportunities for improved water efficiency, and areas of additional research.

2. APPROACH

Three types of analyses were used to gain a better understanding of the water use status and trends in the Region’s CII sectors. These included:

1) A quantitative analysis of available water use data in the Region’s CII sector;

2) Exploratory interviews to gain in-depth perspectives of a selection of CII sub-sectors and representatives regarding successes, challenges and opportunities in implementing water efficiency measures; and

3) A literature review of water efficiency best practices in the CII sector from select jurisdictions in North America and Australia.

Detailed methods used in each of these approaches are outlined below. 2.1 CII Sector Water Demand Analysis

CII sector water use data files were obtained from the billing systems of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge with the assistance of the Region of Waterloo Project Team. The files included a variety of parameters, such as account number, address, annual consumption, Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) codes, and sector type. The MPAC codes designate 99 sub-sectors within the broader commercial, institutional and industrial categories, for example “Industrial Mall”,

“Neighbourhood Shopping Centre”, “Place of Worship”, etc. The MPAC codes were the primary identifiers used in the CII analysis (see Appendix A for full list of MPAC code categories).

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 3 A key challenge working with the datasets was that they were from different billing systems. Region of Waterloo staff assisted with reviewing the data, identifying any inconsistencies or problems with the data files, and addressing these issues with the tri-cities (Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo). Data were “cleansed” by developing a common standard for working with the different datasets, cross-referencing MPAC codes to sub-sector descriptions, and comparing monthly versus annual consumption for any discrepancies.

Once the data were cleansed and standardized, additional analysis was conducted. A key

consideration in the analysis was to look for “low-hanging fruit”, or opportunities where investment in additional or further CII programming and services could have a strong impact on improved water efficiencies. Answers that were sought in the data analysis included:

 Who are the largest CII water users in the Region?

 Which sub-sectors have the most accounts (thereby presenting an opportunity to reach out to many similar companies/institutions with one customer program)?

 Which sub-sectors have large swings in water usage over 5 years?

 Which sub-sectors show an upward trend in water use over 5 years?

The water demand analysis centred on MPAC categories as this was the way data had been recorded in the tri-cities. This was not the most ideal way of categorizing the data, as there was no control on how these categories are defined and whether other groupings would be more suitable for the purposes of this research. However, this was the only identity code available for the CII sector in the Region of Waterloo and therefore the best use was made of these MPAC codes for the analysis. 2.2 Exploratory Interviews

Exploratory interviews were conducted by telephone with representatives in the three CII sectors after the quantitative demand analysis was completed. This allowed for the quantitative results to help inform and guide the approach and questions used in the interviews. The purpose of the interviews was to explore issues and opportunities, and identify areas where further research, contact, and/or analysis could be pursued, as opposed to providing a statistically representative sample of

feedback/information from CII customers across the Region of Waterloo.

One-on-one telephone interviews were chosen over a focus group format, as participants may be reticent to share practices and proprietary information in a group format in front of potential

competitors. A random list of 15 to 20 potential interviewees per sector was drawn from the full list of CII sector companies/institutions designated by MPAC code in the quantitative demand analysis. The sample was pulled from the top 8 MPAC designated sub-sectors that were the highest water

consumers, and therefore were of interest for possible high returns on investment for water efficiency programs. A total of 15 interviews were completed, with 5 representatives in each of the Region’s commercial, institutional and industrial sectors.

Each interview lasted 20 to 30 minutes. A structured set of interview questions was designed to understand: 1) current water conservation initiatives being undertaken; 2) perceived barriers to engaging in other water conservation activities or challenges with current activities; 3) awareness of existing Region of Waterloo programs and incentives (e.g. W.E.T); and 4) suggestions for improving existing water efficiency programs for the CII sector. The full set of questions can be found in Appendix B.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 4 2.3 Best Practices in the CII Sector

The purpose of the case study component was to canvas CII water use efficiency programs in other jurisdictions to determine if any had innovative components that might be successfully adopted in the Region or augment the current approach. A high-level scan of programs in Canada, the U.S. and Australia was completed. Based on this scan, five case studies were selected for further analysis. To identify programs to scan and potentially select for case studies, the authors contacted several well-connected individuals in our network of colleagues working in water conservation via email. Resources available from sources such as the Alliance for Water Efficiency and the California Urban Water Conservation Council were also consulted. We also relied on our own experience and

knowledge from working with demand management programs across North America and Australia. Three of the case studies were selected because of their international reputations for excellence in the CII water efficiency field – San Antonio Water Systems (Texas, USA), Sydney Water (New South Wales, Australia) and City West Water (Victoria, Australia). Not surprisingly, these examples all serve major urban centres with significant historical supply constraints. However, each has a long inventory of program components, many of which could feasibly be emulated and scaled for

implementation within Region of Waterloo. In addition, two examples from smaller jurisdictions were also selected – Contra Costa Water District (California, USA) and City of Tampa (Florida, USA). Each of these utilities services a population roughly comparable in size to that of the Region of Waterloo, and has a robust CII program by international standards.

Although web-based information from a number of Canadian examples was scanned, none were selected as case studies. Preliminary assessment is that none of the examples we looked at were sufficiently more robust or extensive than the program already offered by the Region. This confirms our expectations based on working with many programs across the country and bolsters the argument that the Region’s CII program is already quite strong by Canadian standards.

Readers should note that the information in these case studies is drawn exclusively from readily available online resources and is intended to provide a preliminary and high-level review of each program. Further data collection, potentially including interviews with staff from the selected jurisdictions, may be conducted as part of the development of Technical Memo #4 if any of the program components identified are selected for in-depth evaluation and possible adoption under the Water Efficiency Master Plan Update.

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3. CII SECTOR WATER USE TRENDS

In total, the CII sector accounts for 29% of the Region’s billed water use (see WEMP Update Technical Memo #1). The following sections discuss this water use by top consumers, number of water accounts, average demand per account, 5-year upward water use trends, and changes in per account demand. The analysis is a consolidation of data from the tri-cities; municipality-specific data can be found in the baseline reports prepared for local municipalities under separate cover.

3.1 Water Usage

Figure 1 identifies the top 10 CII sub-sectors, by MPAC code, that consume the most water in the Region of Waterloo. As a group, these 10 sectors consume about two-thirds of the CII water demand – 20% of the tri-cities’ total demand. The top three sub-sectors that use the most water in the Region of Waterloo are designated as Standard Industrial (3055 Mega Litres (ML), Neighbourhood Shopping (826 ML) and Automotive Assembly (793 ML; or an average of 264ML per year for each of the three accounts). Note that this analysis does not distinguish the number of water accounts used by each company/ institution; therefore while there are 875 accounts for Standard Industrial, for example, there may be fewer than 875 individual companies in that sub-sector.

Figure 1: Water Demand in the Top 10 Water Consumers, by CII Sub-Sector

CII Sub-sector 2011Water Use (m3₎

# of Accounts m 3_per account Standard industrial 3,054,794 875 3,491 Neighbourhood shopping 826,345 495 1,669 Automotive assembly 793,166 3 264,389 Heavy manufacturing 748,157 12 62,346 Post secondary education 684,147 52 13,157 Large office building 519,561 198 2,624 Other industrial 477,296 324 1,473 School 466,856 194 2,406 Hospitals 452,738 10 45,274 Industrial mall 392,209 524 748 *Number of water accounts per category are listed in brackets

3.2 Number of Accounts

Figure 2 identifies the CII sub-sectors by MPAC code that have the most water accounts. There are 3,500 CII customers in these 10 sectors, and as a group they represent about half of the CII water demand and 17% of the tri-cities total demand. The sub-sectors of Standard Industrial and

Neighborhood Shopping again stand out as being both high water consumers and having numerous water accounts. Again, this analysis does not distinguish the number of water accounts used by each company/institution.

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Figure 2: Water Demand of Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors That Have the Most Numerous Accounts

CII Sub-sector Accounts # of 2011Water Use (m3₎

m3_per account Standard industrial 875 3,054,794 3,491 Industrial mall 524 392,209 748 Neighbourhood shopping 495 826,345 1,669 Other industrial 324 477,296 1,473 Office use converted 252 45,639 181 Warehousing 237 366,066 1,545 Place of worship 215 64,510 300 Retail - one storey 214 76,338 357 Large office building 198 519,561 2,624 School 194 466,856 2,406

*Number of water accounts per category are listed in brackets

3.3 Average Demand per Account

Figure 3 illustrates CII sub-sectors that have the highest water consumption per account. There are only 42 CII accounts in these 10 sub-sectors. As a group they represent about 8% of the tri-cities’ total demand. The top three sectors with the highest average demand per account include Automotive Assembly (average of 264 ML per account in 2011), Heavy Manufacturing (average of 62 ML per account in 2011) and Hospitals (average 45 ML per account in 2011). Heavy Manufacturing stands out again as having both high water usage (Figure 1) and high average demand for the 12 accounts included in this sub-sector.

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Figure 3: Water Demand in Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors with Highest Average Demand per Account

CII Sub-Sector m

3_per

account 2011 Water Use (m3₎

# of Accounts Automotive assembly 264,389 793,166 3 Specialty steel producer 92,380 277,141 3 Heavy manufacturing 62,346 748,157 12 Food processing plant 52,116 104,232 2 Hospitals 45,274 452,738 10 Freezer plant 27,680 27,680 1 Federal penitentiary 23,492 23,492 1 Distillery/brewery 22,720 45,440 2 Retirement/nursing home 20,918 146,424 7 Campground 17,570 17,570 1

3.4 5-Year Upward Water Use Trend

Figure 4 identifies CII sub-sectors that consume more than 100 ML of water each year, and where the demand per account has seen the largest increase over the past five years. There are 1,000 CII customers in these 10 sectors. As a group they represent about half the CII water demand and 17% of tri-cities’ total demand.

Several points of interest can be gleaned from the graph. While the sub-category of Steel Mill has shown the largest 5 year trend, at an increase in water use of 1094%, total water usage in this sub-category is low at 158ML in 2011, in comparison to other sub-categories. There are many possible explanations for this increase in use, such as the opening of a new steel mill or adoption of a new processing technique that has a higher water use. Further investigations are required to better understand this trend.

The sub-categories of Heavy Manufacturing, Big Box Shopping, and Automotive Assembly are the next three categories with water use increases over 5 years – at 99%, 84% and 55% respectively. Standard Industrial again stands out as being in the top 10 of sub-categories with a strong upward trend in water use. As there are again many possible explanations for these trends, further

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Figure 4: Water Demand in Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors with Greatest Per-Account Demand Increases Over 5 Years

3.5 Changes in Per Account Demand

Figure 5 identifies the top CII sub-sectors that consume more than 100 ML per year of water, and have had large variations in demand over the 5 years of water use data. This was calculated as the percent difference between the sub-category’s lowest year of water use and highest year of water use. There are over 200 CII customers in these 10 sectors; as a group they represent about 9% of tri-cities total demand.

The sub-category Steel Mill is at the top of this analysis, which is not surprising given the 5 year increase trend of 1094% in the previous section. Heavy Manufacturing again stands out in this analysis, with a 36% variance in water use between high and low years. While the category of Post Secondary Education shows a 24% variance between high and low years, the 5 year trend of water use in this sub-category is -1%. More investigation is needed to explain why these trends are occurring – e.g. because of the opening or closing of new facilities, changes in industry specific practices, water efficiency practices, and other possible explanations.

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Figure 5: Water Demand in Top 10 CII Sub-Sectors with Greatest Water Use Variance Between 2006 and 2011

4. PERSPECTIVES FROM CII SECTOR REPRESENTATIVES

15 telephone interviews were conducted with representatives in the MPAC sub-sectors of: 1) Large Office Buildings, Neighbourhood Shopping, and Amusement Park (Commercial Sector); 2) Standard Industrial and Heavy Manufacturing (Industrial Sector); and 3) Hospitals, Post Secondary Education, Nursing Home, Federal Penitentiary and Sports Complex (Institutional Sector). Table 1 provides an overview of the sub-sector, services and primary water uses of the representative

companies/institutions interviewed. Feedback and comments are summarized in Sections 4.1 to 4.4.

Table 1 – Summary Information for 15 CII Sector Representatives Interviewed

MPAC Category Primary Services Primary Water Uses 2011 Water Use

Commercial

Large Office Building,

generally multi-tenanted, over 7, 500 sq ft

Financial services  Washrooms

 Cooling in summer

28 ML

Neighbourhood Shopping centre, including more than two stores attached and under one ownership

Property management  Car wash (on one of properties)

13 ML

Neighbourhood Shopping centre, including more than two stores attached and under one ownership

Fast food (restaurant)  Toilets

 Washing of equipment

13 ML

Amusement Park Hospitality/tourism

(convention centre, water park, camping); Catering

 Washrooms, showers, water park, heating and cooling, catering, etc.

22 ML

Large Office Building,

generally multi-tenanted, over 7, 500 sq ft

Own and manage

properties (8) _ HVAC water towers _Chillers

 Domestic water use

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MPAC Category Primary Services Primary Water Uses 2011 Water Use

Industrial

Standard Industrial property not specifically identified by other Industrial Property Codes

Manufacture metal for

office products 1. electroplating 2. power plating 3. injection molding 4. cooling towers

301 ML

Same as above Build barbeques  Paint lines 33 ML

Same as above Rubber compound

processing _ Cooling _Production

 Machinery cooling

51 ML

Same as above Manufacture

polypropylene and nylon carpet fibers (vertically integrated carpet mill)

 Carpet dying operation 301 ML

Heavy Manufacturing

(non-automotive) Manufacture automotive coated fabrics for interiors of cars

 Steam production

 Water treatment for steam

 Cooling tower, chilled water system filling

 Sanitation (toilets)

49 ML

Institutional

Hospitals, private and public Medical and surgical treatment and nursing care for sick or injured

 Cleaning, bathing, drinking water, showers

 Boilers and chillers

159 ML

Post Secondary Education - university, community college, etc.

Education (university)  Athletics, Fitness centre

 Events and programs

 Recreational showers and washrooms

 Water fountains and fill stations

88 ML

Nursing Home Housing and care for

elderly  Personal/domestic use _{(bathing washroom, toilets)} 18 ML Federal Penitentiary or

Correctional Facility Rehabilitation of sentenced women _ Drinking water _Laundry 23 ML Non-Commercial Sports

Complex Recreation, meetings and conference services _ Pool, arena, showers etc. _{Drinking water} 23 ML 4.1 Industrial Sector

Water Use and Conservation

The five industrial representatives interviewed in the sub-sectors of Standard Industrial and Heavy Manufacturing reported their primary water use as part of the manufacturing process – including steam production, machinery cooling, production, electroplating, and other industry specific activities (see Table 1). Water conservation efforts were also focused on making improvements to the

production and manufacturing processes, including:

 Variable speed drives on motors to regulate the need for water;

 Heat exchangers to help improve efficiency of water cooling;

 Using second pass water, closing loops to recycle water or re-circulating water;

 Improved boiler efficiency;

 Flow restrictions;

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 Eliminating processes that consume water;

 Rinse tanks to control overflow; and

 Replacing toilet flush valves.

Representatives noted the primary motivator for these activities was to reduce costs by reducing water use. In general, the representatives we spoke with found that the measures they had taken were successful – in one case water consumption had been reduced by 60% with associated costs savings. However, all representatives noted that it was not easy to make these adjustments, due to the time investment required to identify where water use could be reduced, capital costs, and complicated technology involved. Another challenge noted was that of educating operators and employees on the benefits of and ways to reduce water use.

Barriers and Opportunities for Water Efficiency

Industrial representatives interviewed generally felt that most water efficiency gains had already been attained – especially in terms of improvements in production and process. Some representatives noted potential opportunities in non-industrial process uses, such as updating washrooms and water fountains. However others noted that this might not be worth the effort due to the relatively low consumption levels.

The key barriers that the five representatives noted that would limit attaining further improvements in water efficiency in the industrial sector included:

 Cost (industrial representatives on average were looking at a 1 to 2 year payback period on investment; one representative noted that they will not look at a project that is longer than 2 years);

 Lack of knowledge on what could be done;

 Lack of people to implement the changes; and

 The need for production to take priority. Feedback on Future Programs and Support

To help with further water efficiency gains, representatives interviewed noted that the following would be beneficial:

 Financial incentives and rebates;

 Information about best practices, examples of what others have done; and

 Benchmarks – to see where one company compares to other companies in the same sub-sector or line of production.

The majority of those interviewed noted they gain their information about water efficiency by word of mouth (e.g. from manufacturers) as well as through internal research.

In general, the industrial representatives noted that the best mechanism to help provide information on reducing water use would be through direct one-on-one contact by the Region – through visits or direct mailing of information. One representative was not aware that the Region offers programs and support in water efficiency, and suggested that approaching their company with ways they could reduce water use, as other utilities approach them, would be beneficial. Another who had received this direct contact from the Region – through a visit, study, and provision of information – found the experience beneficial, and suggested regular contact after that initial approach would be helpful.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 12 4.2 Commercial Sector

Water Use and Conservation

Representatives interviewed in this category included property managers, hospitality and food services, and financial services. Water use therefore spanned activities such as toilets/ washrooms, washing, HVAC cooling systems, and an outdoor water park.

Most of the companies interviewed had engaged in water conservation practices through updating fixtures or practices in washrooms and kitchens, for example by installing low-flow toilets,

automatic/motion-sensor flush and faucets, and waterless urinals. Other water conservation measures noted included regular maintenance on piping, regular monitoring of water use (daily reads), using their own well and pumping for non-potable water needs, and a building-wide automated HVAC system to minimize water use.

Representatives did not note any challenges in undertaking these water conservation measures, and were generally pleased with the gradual results and savings they had obtained.

Cost was noted as the main motivating factor for implementing activities by commercial representatives interviewed. However, the companies also noted an interest in reducing their

environmental footprint and being good corporate citizens. Several representatives interviewed noted having an environmental mandate to manage utilities efficiently.

As seen in the industrial sector, the majority of commercial representatives interviewed felt that there were no further measures they could take to improve water efficiency. One representative noted that they are experimenting with waterless urinals and using rainwater harvesting for use in cooling systems.

The key barriers that the five commercial representatives noted would limit attaining further improvements in water efficiency included:

 Cost of new technologies (payback period of 1 year desired);

 Knowledge of what can be implemented;

 Comfort of customers/clients – e.g. functioning, clean, odourless washrooms, effective air conditioning; and

 Hours of businesses – some run 24/7 or operate with extended hours. Feedback on Future Programs and Support

The commercial representatives interviewed noted that they receive information about water

efficiency primarily through word of mouth (e.g. senior staff, contractors, plumbers, etc.). The need for more information about incentives, ideas, and best practices was stressed by all five interviewees. It was noted that this information needs to be tailored to the particular business in question given the diversity of services and water uses/needs in the Region.

Interviewees suggested several mechanisms for transferring information similar to what they experience with other utilities, including:

 E-mail notices;

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 Workshops;

 Lunch and Learns;

 Breakfast seminars; and

 Information in water bills. 4.3 Institutional Sector Water Use and Conservation

Institutional sectors interviewed included a hospital, long-term care facility, university, correctional facility and sports complex. Water uses included water for personal care (bathing, showering, toilets etc.), for cleaning (laundry, dishwashers, etc.), for consumption (water fountains, kitchens etc.), for recreation (pool and arena), and for cooling. All of the representatives interviewed stated they had made improvements for water efficiency in their washroom and kitchen facilities – such as toilet replacements, low-flow shower heads, motion-sensors on faucets, and replacement of pre-rinse spray valves (through the W.E.T. program). One facility had made changes to the cooling system to make it more energy and water efficient, and another had implemented some behaviour change programs with employees to reduce water use.

A few challenges that were mentioned in regard to implementing water efficiency measures included start-up fees, higher costs in getting supplies and materials, and higher service needs of low-flow toilets. These activities were motivated by both cost savings and sustainability goals.

Institutional representatives interviewed noted several opportunities for improving water efficiency including: 1) further upgrades to washrooms – e.g. toilets, motion-sensor faucets; 2) staff behaviour; and 3) leaks. Representatives noted that they would be less likely to reduce water use for day-to-day activities such as drinking water, cleaning, washing hands, and sterilization. The recreational facility noted that public health regulations influenced water use for pools, and safety regulations influenced water use for ice rinks, and therefore there was little room for change in these areas.

Similar to the other sectors, barriers to making water efficiency improvements in the institutional sector were noted as: 1) time; 2) costs; and 3) education, specifically staff and people who use the building not transferring water conservation practices used at home to their work setting.

Feedback on Future Programs and Support

The acceptable payback period noted by the public sector institutions was slightly longer than the commercial and industrial sectors: up to 3 years, although 1 year was noted as attention-catching. Representatives noted the following would be helpful to improve water efficiency at their institution:

 Information about what is out there – by phone call, e-mail, mail, or direct contact from Region;

 Rebates; and

 Benchmarking to compare with similar institutions.

Current sources of information about water efficiency practices that were noted in the interviews include campus sustainability offices, Sustainable Waterloo, Green Energy Act, WAGES, or from internal inquiries.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 14 4.4 Awareness of and Participation in ROW Water Programs

Only five representatives interviewed had heard of W.E.T. or other Region of Waterloo programs (2 industrial, 1 commercial, 2 institutional). Of those five, four have or are currently participating in W.E.T. through different program elements – e.g. setting-up internal sub-metering or replacing dishwashers with more efficient models. Interviewees reported being pleased with the results of participating in the W.E.T. program.

One of the commercial sector companies noted they had been approached by the Region, however had decided not to pursue any suggested water efficiency measures because they did not feel they were suited to their particular business. The other representatives had not heard of W.E.T. or any other Region of Waterloo programs related to water conservation or efficiency.

5. BEST PRACTICES IN THE CII SECTOR

5.1 Sydney Water, Australia: “Every Drop Counts” Business Program

Image: Tourism Australia

Location: Sydney, Australia

Service Area Population: 4.6 million customers

Program Title: “Every Drop Counts” (EDC) Business Program 5.1.1 Program Overview

Sydney Water supplies water, wastewater, recycled water and some stormwater services to over 4.6 million people in Sydney, the Illawarra and the Blue Mountains. It provides 1.4 billion litres of water to customers on a daily basis. Most of the supply comes from Warragamba Dam, however in times of drought when dam levels fall below 70%, water is also sourced from Sydney's desalination plant. Water recycling also plays a significant role in Sydney’s water supply system. Each day, about 125 million litres of water are recycled. This contributes to the state of New South Wales’ target of 70 billion litres of recycled water a year in Sydney by 2015.

The business sector reduced water demand in Sydney by 15 percent between 2004 and 2008, as illustrated in Figure 6.

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Figure 6: Commercial and Industrial Business Use in Sydney (2004-2008)

Source: Sydney Water

Sydney’s Water suggests a “7-point plan for water efficiency” framework to its CII sector customers, as follows:

1. Seek commitment and leadership from senior management; 2. Appoint a water efficiency manager;

3. Understand your systems to find out where the water is being used; 4. Identify opportunities to save water;

5. Set a realistic goal;

6. Develop a water efficiency strategy; and 7. Involve staff and customers.

This “7-point plan” is in turn based on the Water Management Hierarchy, which follows a sequence from eliminating water use to reducing to reusing and finally to recycling. This is illustrated in Figure 7.

Figure 7: Water Management Hierarchy (Sydney Water Case Study)

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 16 5.1.2 Program Components

Water Management Tools

Every Drop Counts (EDC) Online is a secure website that allows business customers to track, report and organise their water information. This website helps customers set priorities and track use after

projects have been implemented, as well as monitor an ongoing basis. It features:

 Up to date water use data;

 Automated graphical reports to interpret trends;

 Water use figures benchmarked against specific business indicators; and

 Access to downloadable meter reading data.

Figure 8: Screenshot from EDC Online (Sydney Water Case Study)

Management Diagnostic Tools

Aside from the online tool, the EDC also has management diagnostic tools available. These include:

 One-2-Five Water: This helps businesses measure improvements and compare their performance with other organizations. It is designed for corporations that have multiple divisions and sites, complex management structures and that use more than 80 m3 _{per day.}

 Water Achiever: This tool is designed for smaller businesses. It employs a “traffic light” rating system to measure a company’s performance. The measurement is obtained by self-assessment through workshops facilitated by a Sydney Water EDC Water Efficiency Specialist, offered at no charge.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 17 Rebates and Incentives

Sydney Water continues to offer several targeted incentive programs, as follows:

 Smart Rinse Program: free replacement of pre-rinse spray valves with efficient models;

 Rainwater Tanks: up to $1500 for a tank that holds 7 m3_{or more and is connected to toilets} and a washing machine.

Best Practice Guidelines

Sydney Water has created three detailed best management practice guides for key water using sectors. Each has extensive detail (some with over 100 pages of information) presented in an attractive and user-friendly format.

Aquatic Leisure Centres

There are several hundred aquatic centres in the Sydney region, making this sector a major water and energy consumer. Sydney Water has worked with local councils to help them improve water management in these centres. Between 2005/06 and 2009/10, the sector saved about 15 percent of its water use. The volume of wastewater discharged also declined significantly.

The Best Practice Guidelines for Water Management in Aquatic Centres is a comprehensive guide. Among other things, it covers leaks, pool

operations, aquatic centre efficiency, alternative water sources and managing wastewater. There are also checklists for water saving actions, and a risk management guide to using alternative water sources. Since

pools are heated, the guidelines also focus on the link between water and energy consumption. Clubs

Australia has a culture of clubs, with approximately 70 percent of adults in the state of New South Wales belonging to one. These include lawn bowling clubs, surf clubs, ex-servicemen’s clubs (similar to Canada’s Legions) and golf clubs among others. These facilities typically include restaurants, pools, lawn bowling greens, golf courses and sports fields, and are large consumers of water.

The Best Practice Guidelines for Water Efficiency in Clubs is a comprehensive guide that features guidelines and worksheets on both indoor and outdoor water efficiency opportunities.

Clubs that have participated in the program have reduced water use by 20 percent. Four clubs have reduced water use by more than 50 percent. Much of the savings was achieved by repairing leaks, improving maintenance practices and installing water efficient equipment. Most of the projects that required capital investment paid for themselves within 2 years.

Open Space Turf Management

The Best Practice Guidelines for Holistic Open Space Turf Management in Sydney provides information and guidance on turf management with a focus on soil, turf, irrigation and drainage. It advises on how to approach turf from a holistic perspective. This includes thinking about alternative sources such as

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 18 recycled water, treated either at a central plant or onsite. The guidelines include worksheets on pests, weeds and irrigation system design.

Rainwater Tank Calculator

The Rainwater Tank Calculator estimates how much water a rainwater tank could save a business. It also helps select the most suitable tank for the business’ needs. This is a simple, free, online tool. Water Management Meetings

Water management meetings are available for business to meet with staff to conduct audits, establish benchmarks, identify cost savings, develop contingency plans for service interruptions, and identify leaks.

Waterwrap Newsletter

The Waterwrap newsletter is published 2 times a year and provides program updates and case studies. It is available by email or online.

Most Recent Issue of Waterwrap (Autumn 2013)

5.1.3 Potential Considerations for Region of Waterloo

 Online tools such as the water management and diagnostic tools could be developed by the Region alone or, perhaps more efficiently, in partnership with other Canadian water service providers through the Canadian National Water Efficiency Network.

 Regular outreach is facilitated by the ongoing newsletter publication, creating the opportunity to keep conservation front-of-mind and to build long-term relationships between the Region and CII customers.

 Sydney Water’s sector specific guidelines are highly detailed and comprehensive, far more so than most publications of their kind. This provides a useful model that could be replicated for specific, high water use sectors within the Region.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 19 5.1.4 Web Links

Sydney Water Business Programs and Resources

http://www.sydneywater.com.au/SW/your-business/managing-your-water-use/programs-and-resources/index.htm

5.2. City West Water, Melbourne, Australia: Business Programs

Image: Wikipedia

Location: Melbourne Australia

Service Area Population: 867,799

Program Title: City West Water Business Program 5.2.1 Program Overview

In 2007, The Victoria state government introduced the WaterMAP program, which encourages non-residential customers who use more than 5 ML per year to develop a Water Management Action Plan with their local water utility. While this is voluntary, uptake has been strong. To date, the program has resulted in estimated savings of 17 billion litres annually across Victoria.

City West Water is one of three retail water companies servicing metropolitan Melbourne and is wholly owned by the Victoria State Government. The core business of the utility is to deliver drinking water and alternate water and the collection of sewage and trade waste in Melbourne’s central business district as well as the inner and western suburbs.

City West Water serves a high proportion of the commercial, institutional and industrial sector - 43% of water supplied in 2007/08 was to non-residential customers. It has several programs to support the CII sector in saving water and energy. The broad goals are to save water, reduce trade waste, and contribute to recycling and reuse, both onsite and via Melbourne’s sewage treatment plants. Significant reductions have been achieved to date, as illustrated in Figure 9.

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Figure 9: Volume of Water Supplied: Commercial Municipal and Industrial – City West Water (ML)

Source: Water Services Association of Australia (2009).

5.2.2 Program Components Clean in Place

This program targets cleaning systems that use a large amount of drinking water and chemicals, as well as produce trade waste. While many facilities have automated systems, these often do not function properly because they are poorly understood by those operating them. City West Water has produced a series of Best Practice Guidelines for improving water efficiency with this end use.

Business Showerhead Exchange Program

This program replaces older showerheads with new efficient ones at no cost. Resource Management Action Plan (ResourceMAP)

ResourceMAP is a tool designed to assist businesses to identify and document resource efficiency opportunities through adoption of cleaner production principles. The model is based on integration of water, energy and trade waste improvement options into one plan.

Fire Sprinkler Program

Led by Victoria’s Plumbing Industry Commission and supported by water utilities in Melbourne including City West Water, this program published a Guide to Fire Sprinkler System Water Saving. It aims to address the 500 million litres of drinking water per year used in the testing and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems in Melbourne alone.

Pre-Rinse Spray Gun Exchange

This program replaces old spray guns with newer efficient ones at no cost. Specific End Use Guidelines

City West offers a number of technical and detailed end use technology guidelines and case studies, including the following:

 Steam systems;

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 Wastewater recycling;

 Amenities;

 Cooling towers;

 Rainwater and stormwater harvesting;

 Kitchens;

 Laundries; and

 Outdoor water use. Free Water and Energy Audits

This audit program identifies areas for efficiency improvements in businesses and completes basic upgrades such as showerheads and light bulbs at no cost.

Woking the Way to Water Savings

Asian style restaurants typically use two to four times more water than other restaurants, due largely to commercial wok stoves and steamers. This program provides a series of guides in several

languages to assist restaurants owners with saving water and energy in their kitchens. Woking the Way to Water Savings Guide (Chinese Language Version)

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 22 Rebates for Small Businesses

Small businesses can access rebates on water efficient products. Any businesses with 50 full time equivalent or fewer employees is eligible to receive rebates of up to $2000 on a range of water-efficient products including:

 Commercial glass washers;

 Dishwashers;

 Washing machines;

 High pressure cleaners; and

 Dual flush toilets.

Access to “Alternative” (a.k.a. Recycled) Water

Where feasible, businesses can access very high quality “alternative” or recycled water for toilet flushing, irrigation, decorative fountains and other uses. The objective is to reduce drinking water use, wastewater discharge and demand on infrastructure and catchments. City West Water provides a number of fact sheets and best practice guidelines to help customers investigate opportunities and get started.

Liquid Assets Magazine

City West Water regularly produces a high-quality publication entitled Liquid Assets, aimed specifically at CII customers. This provides best management practices, case studies and profiles of technologies across a broad range of organizations. Thirteen issues have been produced since 2006.

Inaugural Issue of “Liquid Assets” (2006)

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 23 5.2.3 Potential Considerations for Region of Waterloo

 City West Water’s programs provide good examples of how finely targeted demand

management programs can become. For example, resources are offered on very specific end uses (e.g., steam production, fire sprinklers) and for very precise market segments (e.g. Asian

restaurants).

 Like Sydney Water in Case Study #1, City West Water works to build long term relationships with CII customers through regular publication of a newsletter with useful case studies and advice in a well-designed package.

 Should the Region decide to do more to promote water source substitution (recycling and

rainwater harvesting) for the CII sector, City West’s approach and resources provide a model that might be emulated.

 City West Water has a reputation for having one of the most comprehensive CII programs in Australia, if not the world. It is encouraging that many of its components, including low cost audits, pre-rinse spray valves replacement and product rebates, are already in place in Region of Waterloo.

5.2.4 Web Links

City West Water Business Program Overview https://www.citywestwater.com.au/business.aspx Water Services Association of Australia

www.wsaa.asn.au/

5.3. San Antonio Water System, Texas: Commercial Program

Image: Wikipedia Location: San Antonio, Texas, USA

Service Area Population: Services approximately 2.4 million water and wastewater customers in three counties

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 24 5.3.1 Program Overview

Water conservation and security is a priority for San Antonio, particularly since 1998, when City Council accepted Securing Our Water Future Together as the first comprehensive widely supported water resource plan for the City. This established the guiding principles for water resource

development and defined San Antonio Water System’s (SAWS) leadership role. These water plans were subsequently updated, most recently in 2009.

San Antonio now has the largest direct recycled water system and the third largest underground storage facility in the United States. It boasts of having the “best water conservation program in the country”.

One of the drivers and indicators of the success of its water conservation programs is decreased reliance of the overused Edwards aquifer. Despite experiencing the worst drought on record in 2011, SAWs has achieved substantial progress towards its goals, as illustrated in the following graph.

Source: San Antonio Water System. www.saws.org

San Antonio’s commercial customers account for10 percent of its total customer base, but 40 percent of annual water sales. As a result, SAWS has a robust and comprehensive set of commercial programs and rebates.

5.3.2 Program Components Large Scale Retrofit Rebate

All commercial customers are eligible for a rebate of up to 50 percent of the installed cost of new water saving equipment, including:

 Replacement of water-cooled equipment with air-cooled equipment;

 Process water reclamation systems;

 Air conditioning condensate capture and reuse;

 Elimination of water-intensive phases of industrial processes;

 Cooling tower modifications;

 Industrial laundry equipment upgrades;

 Dental vacuum conversions; and

 Improvements in cleaning processes.

The goal of this program is for companies to incorporate the rebate into the cost/benefit analysis when contemplating a proposed project, and thereby increase the likelihood that they will move forward. The amount of the rebate is determined by the actual water savings over the life of the equipment and the cost to install it.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 25 Toilet Retrofit Program

All commercial customers with toilets installed prior to 1992 are eligible for a replacement model. Efficient toilets are provided at no cost. Non-profit organization may qualify for a complete retrofit of all high volume toilets, provided by a SAWS Plumbing Contractor, again at no cost (i.e., including installation).

Certified WaterSaver Program: Restaurants

This program provides free spray valves and low flow toilets to restaurants, including installation. It also includes a rebate on air-cooled ice machines of up to 50%.

Participants receive decals for doors and other benefits that demonstrate their involvement and provide positive marketing (see image, right).

Irrigation Design Rebate

All CII customers are eligible to work with SAWS conservation consultants to identify design flaws in their irrigation systems. Up to $6,000 in rebates is available.

Commercial Cooling Tower Audit

This audit-based program evaluates CII cooling tower and cooling water systems at no cost. Costs savings in areas such as water usage, sewer charges, corrosion, fouling and chemical costs are

identified. Improvements may be eligible for substantial incentives under the SAWS Commercial Large Scale Retrofit Program.

Certified WaterSaver Program: Car Washes

This is a certification program for commercial car washes that commenced in 1997. In order to qualify, businesses must apply online and pass an

inspection. It provides decals, signage and other benefits to car washes that implement best management practices and meet other program guidelines (see image, left). Regular inspections occur and if the business is in

compliance, it receives a 10% discount on its monthly sewer bill.

All certified operations are also required to host three charity car washes a year. This helps support a San Antonio Council Conservation Ordinance that requires charity car washes to be held only at dedicated car wash businesses. Prior to this, these events were typically held at restaurants, shopping centres and gas stations, where they were wasting large amounts of water as well as creating stormwater and groundwater pollution.

Power Washing Certification

In 2006, San Antonio passed a by-law requiring any person who uses a power washer for a commercial purpose to register with SAWS and obtain a certificate for such use. The program is incentive-based and rewards local pressure washing businesses for promoting clean water awareness and implementing best management practices. For example, for operations at fixed sites (e.g., car dealerships), this may include collecting and discharging wastewater into the sanitary sewer via a pre-treatment system (e.g., to remove solids or oils).

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 26 Rain Sensors for Sprinkler Systems

Since 2006, rain sensors have been required in all in-ground sprinkler systems in San Antonio. These sensors shut the irrigation system off when an adequate amount of rainfall has been received. Those found in non-compliance can be issued a “water waster” ticket. SAWS provides advice online to CII customers on how these controllers work, best practices for installation and contact information for local retailers where they can be purchased.

Irrigation Checkup

Properties that are five acres or more and have in-ground irrigation systems, such as athletic fields and golf courses, must submit an annual irrigation check-up to the SAWS Conservation Department by 1 May each year. This is mandatory under a San Antonio City Council water conservation ordinance. Properties that do not have this document on file will lose their courtesy warning during year-round restrictions. Tickets can be issued if the irrigation system is found running outside designated irrigation hours or if water from the irrigation system is found running down the street or other impervious cover. 5.3.3 Potential Considerations for Region of Waterloo

 SAWS program is notable for its very generous incentives. For example, CII toilet replacement is offered at no cost instead than the more commonplace rebate approach. The Region could consider similarly generous offers in order to increase uptake, noting that the budget impacts and cost per volume saved calculations would require careful analysis.

 SAWS works closely with specific water using sectors through a combination of incentives and marketing promotion, notably restaurants and car washes. The Region could consider making greater use of similar joint marketing efforts with CII partners.

 While incentives are a cornerstone tool for SAWS, it has also not shied away from regulatory approaches including mandatory installation of rain sensors and requirements for irrigation check-ups for large irrigators.

5.3.4 Web Links

San Antonio Commercial Programs and Rebates http://www.saws.org/conservation/commercial/ San Antonio Water Management Plan 2012

http://www.saws.org/Your_Water/WaterResources/2012_WMP/docs/20121204_2012WMP_Boa rdApproved.pdf

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 27 5.4. Tampa Water Department, Florida: Water Conservation Program

Image: Wikipedia

Location: City of Tampa, Florida, USA Service Area Population: 588,000

Program Title: Tampa Water Department Water Conservation Program 5.4.1 Program Overview

The Tampa Water Department, a department under City of Tampa’s Public Works and Utility Services, treats and delivers drinking water to a service population of approximately 588,000 people in the Tampa Bay area.

Non-residential water use accounts for 40 percent of total consumption. In response, the City offers a suite of tools and guides to assist businesses to reduce water consumption.

5.4.2 Program Components ICI Water Use Efficiency Survey

Staff from the Tampa Water Department collaborate with customers to complete free desk-level water use efficiency surveys. This helps facility managers identify areas where efficiencies can be found. In addition to this survey, customers can also use a Water Use Checklists for a higher-level evaluation.

Water Use Efficiency Tools for Facility Managers

For a more thorough self-evaluation, businesses can use the Water Efficiency Self-Conducted Water Audits at Commercial and Institutional Facilities Guide. This document is compiled by the South Florida Water Management District Water Supply Development Section. It includes basic and advanced audit advice in areas including:

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 Leak detection;

 Examining utility bills;

 Commercial kitchens;

 Cooling towers;

 Outdoor water use;

 Rain and soil moisture sensors; and

 Reading water meters.

The 214-page resource offers best practice advice and provides a series of worksheets that can be completed by businesses (see image, right). It also includes a guide on “further efficiency improvement analyses” for those wanting to go beyond audits to design a full-scale improvement program.

Source: South Florida Water Management District

Speaker’s Bureau

The Speaker’s Bureau is a community education and awareness program that offers speakers to professional organizations, groups, committees, clubs, societies and other associations. Speakers will conduct presentations on the water department’s programs for efficiency, recycling, treatment and other programs at no cost. Interested organizations can make a request online.

Reclaimed Water

The Reclaimed Water Florida project provides highly treated wastewater to residents and businesses for turf irrigation and landscaping. This benefits businesses by reducing irrigation costs and reducing the need to fertilize frequently due to the nutrient content of the water. The Reclaimed Water System services about 4,000 locations, providing about 3.1 million gallons per day.

Water Wise Awards

The Tampa Water Department presents an annual Water Wise award to businesses and residents (see image, right). It recognizes those who have committed to conserving water resources and protecting the environment by using Florida-friendly landscaping.

The Pipeline

City of Tampa publishes a monthly newsletter, The Pipeline, with news from the Water Department. Customers can sign up for the email version at the City website. Published since July 2008, it includes information of interest to both residential and non-residential customers.

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 29 5.4.3 Potential Considerations for Region of Waterloo

 CII audit material is offered at a range of scales depending on the needs of a particular business, from high-level checklists, to staff assisted desktop audits, through to comprehensive

self-assessment guidelines. This scalable approach could augment the water use review and audit system that the Region already has in place.

 Like the Region, Tampa has an active outreach program to provide speakers at public events. However, use of online registration and active promotion increases the profile of this program and creates the opportunity to reach less frequently contacted audiences.

 Use of an annual award program raises the profile of the conservation program and provides another way for those businesses who champion water efficiency to gain recognition.

5.4.4 Web Links

City of Tampa Water Efficiency Survey Information

http://www.tampagov.net/dept_water/programs_and_services/Water_Conservation/Water_use_Ef ficiency_Survey.asp

Water Efficiency and Self-Conducted Water Audits at Commercial and Institutional Facilities: A Guide for Facility Managers

http://issuu.com/southfloridawatermanagement/docs/water_efficiency_improvement_guide?mode=w indow

5.5. Contra Costa Water District, California: Conservation Incentive Programs

Image: California Environmental Protection Agency

Location: Contra Costa County, California, USA Service Area Population: 550,000

Program Title: Commercial Conservation Incentive Programs 5.5.1 Program Overview

The Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) is a special district public agency that delivers raw and treated water to customers in central and eastern Contra Costa County in California. Contra Costa County (Spanish for "opposite coast") lies in the San Francisco Bay area. Its commercial, industrial and institutional sector comprises 49 percent of water sales, and includes several large-scale

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Technical Memo #2 – Region of Waterloo WEMP Update 30 5.5.2 Program Components

Commercial Water Use Survey

CCWD offers a free water use survey to businesses that includes:

 Annual consumption history;

 An analysis and evaluation of water usage;

 A detailed evaluation of the site and recommend equipment upgrades and improvements;

 Cost/benefit analysis of water conserving technology;

 Free water saving devices, plumbing fixtures and materials; and

 Rebate incentives for plumbing upgrades. Product Rebates

CCWD offers a package of product rebates to CII customers including the following

 Toilets - $125 toward purchase of a high efficiency WaterSense labelled toilet;

 Clothes Washers - $220 rebates for commercial and apartment complex customers who install high efficiency washers in laundromats or common washing facilities;

 Urinals - $125 toward the material costs (bowl & valve) of new urinals under the The High Efficiency Urinal Rebate Program; products must meet WaterSense specifications and a maximum of 1.9 litres per flush;

 Water brooms - 50% rebate on the purchase price, up to $75 per unit;

 Cooling tower conductivity meters - 50 percent of the cost of a conductivity meter, up to $500 per unit;

 Commercial Irrigation Equipment Rebate - to be eligible for a rebate under this program, companies must first contact the CCWD and have a Large Landscape Water Use Survey completed by staff (see s. 4.2.4). Equipment that may be eligible for rebates include controllers, drip retrofits, rain sensors, flow meters and sprinkler heads.

Free Pre-Rinse Dishwashing Sprayer

Low volume pre-rinse dishwashing spray valves are provided to CII facilities at no cost. Irrigation Calculator and Large Landscape Water Use Survey

As part of the Large Landscape Water Use Survey, the CCWD has developed a calculator to assist owners and managers of commercial properties, stores, parks, apartments, schools and business complexes to calculate how much water their automatic irrigation system should uses. This is a simple tool for those who want to conduct a basic self-audit and is freely available on the CCWD website (see Figure 10).

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Figure 10: Screen Shot of CCWD Irrigation Calculator (Contra Costa Case Study)

Source: http://www.ccwater.com/conserve/landscape_calc_pro.html

The calculator can be used in conjunction with the Large Landscape Water Use Survey. This program involves a visit from a CCWD staff person, who will:

 Inspect irrigation equipment;

 Perform sprinkler precipitation tests;

 Provide a written report with suggestions for improving efficiency;

 Provide a personalized irrigation schedule based on test data and local weather data; and

 Provide a personalized landscape water budget. Smart Sprinkler Timer Rebate

To be eligible for this rebate, properties must have a dedicated irrigation meter or a landscape sub-meter to measure all landscape water use. Properties must also have historical water consumption above 150% of CCWD’s site-specific Landscape Water Budget. Those interested must have a pre-inspection from the Water District and receive an approval letter specifying eligibility.

Smart Wash Car Wash

Commercial car washes that wish to participate in the Smart Wash Car Wash Program must meet certain criteria, including mandatory onsite water recycling. Upon approved, they can display a program decal and signage at the operation. The CCWD also offers coupons on behalf of

participating businesses on the CCWD website (see Figure 11). These provide customer discounts as an incentive for both the car washes to take part and for their customers to select water efficient operations.

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Figure 11: Smart Wash Car Wash Decal and Coupon (Contra Costa Case Study)

Source: http://www.ccwater.com/conserve/commercial.asp

5.5.3 Potential Considerations for Region of Waterloo

 CCWD offers several integrated landscape-oriented resources including the online irrigation calculator, staff site reviews and equipment rebates. Combined, this creates a compelling package of incentives for customers with high outdoor water use.

 Rebate programs are relatively comprehensive and generous.

 CCWD’s car wash program illustrates how a very specific CII sector can be effectively targeted and how it, in turn, can become a partner to encourage residential customers to make more efficient purchase choices.

5.5.4 Web Links

Commercial Water Use Programs