EPA and Utilities to Promote Water Performance Measures for Utilities

EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Benjamin H. Grumbles has signed a statement of support with six national associations to promote recommended utility performance measures and encourage the use of these tools and 10 management attributes by utilities around the country.

The “10 Attributes of Effectively Managed Water Sector Utilities” provide a reference point for utilities seeking to improve performance. They are:


product quality
customer satisfaction
employee and leadership development
financial viability
infrastructure stability
operational resilience
community sustainability
water resource adequacy
stakeholder understanding and support.

“This significant agreement advances the Administration’s sustainable infrastructure initiative for America and charts a course, locally and globally, for wise management of water systems,” said Grumbles.

This statement of support represents an important milestone by enabling EPA and its industry partners to develop a list of measures to help utilities manage progress in daily operations, infrastructure and overall performance. Through a common management framework, this approach will enhance the utilities’ environmental stewardship efforts. Environmental stewardship encourages water efficiency, energy efficiency, and the use of construction materials and processes that minimize impacts on the environment.

The statement and supporting strategies formalize a comprehensive effort among EPA, the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, the American Public Works Association, the American Water Works Association, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, the National Association of Water Companies and Water Environment Federation to encourage effective utility management. These associations, with about 80,000 members, represent some of the largest utilities in the country.