Energy Efficiency in Water Utilities: The Case of Guyana

Energy consumption in the water sector is extremely important. Energy is needed throughout the entire process of drinking water generation and treatment. Estimates indicate that electricity expenses may represent as much as 40% of the total operating costs of a water and sanitation (W&S) utility. Conversely, energy consumption of W&S utilities often represent animportant proportion of the total electricity generated in a country. Yet, energy consumed by W&S utilities is not always used efficiently. This technical note aims to highlight how water and sanitation utilities can increase their energy efficiency, reducing operational costs and impacting positively the overall operational efficiency of W&S utilities. To illustrate this, the technical note takes as an example a pilot project carried out in the Guyana Water and Sanitation Utility - Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).