Saving Water Saves Energy

Conserving water, especially this summer, can help ease the energy crisis. Water distribution comprises the largest use of electricity in the state of California. Pumping to distribute water accounts for seven percent of the overall power consumption and five percent during peak periods throughout the state.

Marin Municipal Water District's (MMWD) public outreach campaign demonstrates how water conservation is even more vital during the energy crisis. As Pamela Nicolai, MMWD general Manager explains," It takes a great deal of energy to pump water up the hills to the 146 storage tanks throughout the water district." MMWD conservation efforts include pumping in off-peak times when possible.

MMWD is appealing to consumers to conserve water during the dry summer, when water consumption typically doubles, often because of irrigation. Check out MMWD's website under "Water Conservation" to find other ways to maintain a beautiful landscape during the summer:
www. marinwater.org.

East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) is also reinforcing conservation outreach. Water surveys are part of their free Residential Audit Program, which presents water-use efficiency tips and rebate opportunities. Irrigation audits and rebates are offered to large-landscape irrigation customers for using and installing water-efficient irrigation equipment. In addition, industrial, commercial and institutional customers are offered water usage audits and rebates for water efficiency equipment costs. For more information, review EBMUD's website at www.ebmud.com