Water execs: Demand likely to outstrip supply
Oracle Utilities has unveiled new research which offers insight into water utility executives' perceptions of national water demand risks. According to the research, 30 percent of senior water utility executives believe it is highly likely that national water demand will outstrip supply due to increasing populations and changing environments, highlighting the need for a significant shift change in the management and production of water supplies. Another 54 percent believe the risk is "moderately likely." The biggest threat to that supply is wasteful consumer behavior, according to 45 percent of the respondents. Climate change (34 percent) and low tariffs that fail to stimulate greater investment (33 percent) also threaten the water supply. These challenges are prompting technology innovations, such as desalination, network sensors and smart meters that help moderate demand and resolve issues efficiently, to make their way into the water industry. The vast majority of respondents (93 percent) are increasing the investments needed to meet supply challenges with 22 percent increasing their investments by 15 percent or more within the next three years. For more:
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