NE Valley Times

At the recent Scottsdale City Council Meeting, Arizona Public Service (APS) presented a check for $137,926.80 to Scottsdale Water. This payment was made in recognition of the utility's participation in the APS Peak Solutions energy savings program during the previous summer. Since joining the program in 2009, Scottsdale Water has accumulated over $1.3 million through its energy-saving initiatives.

Scottsdale Water is now in its 12th year of involvement with APS Peak Solutions. The utility voluntarily reduces power usage during peak times to alleviate pressure on APS and its customers. To achieve these reductions, Scottsdale Water relies on reserve water and alternative energy sources while minimizing cooling systems—a challenge given that peak energy periods often coincide with high water demand from customers.

In 2021, Scottsdale Water participated in six separate events as part of the summer program, each requiring different levels of energy reduction. During these events, the utility has one hour to coordinate among workgroups to implement procedures and notify treatment operations. Staff responsiveness is crucial as employees must confirm equipment is safely taken offline.

David Walby, Director of Water Reclamation Services, stated: “The staff is vital to making sure we are successful and each year they come through when called up. Their skills and diligence make this operation possible each summer.”

Scottsdale Water not only achieved the largest energy load reduction within APS Peak Solutions for Business but also became the largest municipal contributor to savings within the program. This collaboration helps APS stabilize its power distribution system during high demand periods and supports other providers like SRP and California-based companies.

The financial benefits from this partnership allow Scottsdale Water to enhance quality control measures and update infrastructure systems, ultimately reducing costs for local customers.

Scottsdale Water has been serving businesses and residents with quality drinking water and advanced reclamation services for 50 years. Recognized as an industry leader, it has received accolades such as the Platinum Award for Utility Excellence from the Association of Municipal Water Agencies and Utility of the Future Today recognition from the EPA.