AE2S Nexus has published the 2020 version of its annual Utility Rate Survey. We would like to thank the 257 participants this year. AE2S Nexus received responses from 122 systems serving populations 5,000 and greater, 92 systems serving populations less than 5,000, and 43 regional rural systems. Survey data was solicited from utilities in Colorado, … Read more
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) announced the 2020 notice of funding availability under its Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program, including funding for the new State Water Infrastructure Financing Authority (SWIFIA) program. The announcement marks the fourth round of WIFIA funding. The funding programs accelerate investment in critical water infrastructure through innovative … Read more
The full economic effect of the COVID-19 pandemic is still unknown at this point. However, economists predict varying degrees of economic downturn. To compound the issue, oil producing regions are contending with the price of oil bottoming out at the same time. Although there are a lot of unknowns when it comes to the future … Read more
Shifting climate patterns and periods of drought and excessive precipitation appear to becoming increasingly extreme, posing continual challenges such as physical setbacks in the agricultural industry and social challenges associated with extreme weather conditions. In the water industry, we find ourselves simultaneously working toward solutions to conditions of both too little water and too much … Read more
According to the results of the 2019 AE2S Utility Rate Survey, it is most common for systems to utilize a combination of fixed and variable charges in its utility rate structures – particularly for drinking water rates. Just 1.1% of municipal survey respondents of all sizes are using a fixed charge (with no volumetric charge) … Read more
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $192 million in 71 rural water infrastructure projects across 29 states. The funding comes from the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program. Rural communities, water districts and other eligible entities can use the funds for drinking water, stormwater drainage and waste disposal systems in rural … Read more