EMWD Receives 'Outstanding Energy Management Award'

The Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) was recognized for its commitment toward energy independence by the American Water Work's Association's (AWWA) California-Nevada section at its annual conference.

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."

"Our board and staff are committed to doing all can to proactively manage our energy usage as we continue to strive for energy independence," said EMWD Board President Phillip E. Paule.

By the end of the year, EMWD will complete work on a 500kW solar farm at its Perris headquarters. Once operational, in partnership with 9 microturbines, make EMWD's operation and administrative centers, grid neutral, providing approximately $200,000 a year in energy savings for the next 2 decades.

In 2015, EMWD plans to build more solar facilities at their 4 active water reclamation facilities and at their groundwater desalination plant.

"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."