Murrieta Water District Recognized for Energy Management Efforts

The following was submitted for publication on behalf of Eastern Municipal Water District:

Eastern Municipal Water District this week was recognized for its commitment toward energy independence by the American Water Works Association’s California-Nevada section at its annual conference in Reno, Nev.

EMWD received the “Outstanding Energy Management Award,” which is presented to water agencies that “have exhibited outstanding leadership in energy management in their operation of potable water supply, treatment and distribution systems, or recycled water distribution systems.”

“We are certainly proud and appreciative of this honor,” EMWD Board President Philip E. Paule said. “Our Board and staff are committed to doing all we can to proactively manage our energy usage as we continue to strive for energy independence.

“By doing so, we are able to help stabilize costs for our ratepayers and serve as good stewards to the environment.”

EMWD has saved millions annually through its commitment to energy efficiency, as outlined in its Energy Management Plan. That plan serves as a roadmap in helping guide the District in its commitment toward reducing its overall energy consumption.

In 2014, EMWD will finish work on a 500kW solar farm at its Perris headquarters. Once operational, it will – in partnership with nine microturbines – make EMWD’s operation and administrative centers grid-neutral. It is projected that the solar facility will provide average annual savings of $200,000 over the next two decades.

EMWD in 2015 will award contracts to design and build solar facilities at its four active water reclamation facilities and its groundwater desalination plant.

Currently, the use of green energy is used at several water reclamation facilities. Two of the four operate fuel cell technology that uses methane gas from the treatment process to produce enough energy to power nearly one-third of the respective plants.

EMWD has also significantly reduced its energy demand through its recycled water and conservation programs. By using more local resources – including recycled water – and promoting conservation measures, the District is able to avoid importing as much water from far-reaching areas of the state.

“We are certainly appreciative of the AWWA for recognizing the work that we have done,” Paule said. “But we know there is much more for us to do, and we are committed to doing our part to continue to reduce our energy usage in the future.”