Defining a Resilient Business Model for Water Utilities
Abstract
This project helps utilities address the challenges of revenue gaps, which are exacerbated by rising customer expectations, declining water consumption, aging infrastructure, and necessary integration of utility finance functions with asset management, environmental justice, risk management, and other initiatives. The products of this project lay the groundwork for a shift in thinking by utilities to modernize financial and management practices by strengthening linkages among systems, processes, and decision-making practices. In addition to the research report, the project produced the following products: (1) a Revenue Risk Assessment Tool and Customer Assistance Program Cost Estimation Tool available under Project Resources/Web Tools, (2) three videos that summarize the project results available under this project description, and (3) Chapters 1 to 4 of the report as standalone documents under Project Resources/Project Papers. The Customer Assistance Program Cost Estimation Tool was updated in 2021, and version 2.0 is posted below. Research partner: EPA. Published in 2014.
- Whiteboard Video: Financial Benchmarking for the Water Industry
- Whiteboard Video: New Business Models for the Water Industry
- Whiteboard Video: Credit Rating Agency Considerations for the Water Industry
Downloading this webtool constitutes acceptance of the terms outlined in our End User License Agreement.
Resources
Defining a Resilient Business Model for Water Utilities: Chapters 1-4
The report, Defining a Resilient Business Model for Water Utilities, provides an assessment of the revenue model and resulting financial condition of water utilities in North America (primarily the United...
Water Utility Customer Assistance Program Cost Estimation Tool
This tool was developed to help utilities assess the costs and benefits of implementing a customer affordability program in their service area. Using information from the U.S. Census Bureau and...
Water Utility Revenue Risk Assessment Tool
This tool allows utilities to quickly determine the proportion of residential revenues from water sales at risk of loss when demand patterns change, based on the utility's own rate structure...
