AWWA CSC95043

The potential for collaboration between electric and water utilities to develop systems that benefit both utilities is significant. The risks and obstacles are also significant in the creation of new systems that utilize high technology. However, the risks and costs are minimized by utilizing the proven technology and knowledge available from electric utilities. The benefits of sharing this risk and developing industry-wide standards for water quality constrained economic control system provide an opportunity that is in synchronism with current technology and the utilities' regulatory environment. It is also important to note that this project, in its embryo stage, has been underwritten entirely by the electric utility industry. This in itself demonstrates there is a new era of mutual cooperation between electric and water utilities. The benefits associated with improved efficiencies in operating water utilities will benefit both industries for the ultimate gain of the water and electric customer.