The New Water Source Impact Tool is designed to provide a reasonable estimate of the energy and carbon emissions costs of developing a new water supply when detailed input data is unavailable. The tool relies on very basic assumptions and input data help communities assess the magnitude of energy required for water supply projects.

After selecting the appropriate state, the user then selects the type of water being developed (surface, groundwater, seawater, etc.) and the volume of water expected to be supplied through this source. Users are then asked to enter the elevation lift from source water to the distribution area. This information can typically be obtained through environmental impact statements or by contacting your utility. Next, users submit a value for the energy intensity of their distribution system, that is, the infrastructure that connects a major water supply to the houses and businesses that use the water. If your utility does not have this information, a proxy value is provided.

To use this tool, data is entered on the left-hand side of the screen and the results display to the right of the white divider line. The data and assumptions behind this tool can be viewed by clicking on the “Assumptions” tab in the bottom left corner of the workbook. Please note that these models are designed for educational purposes and are not intended to provide a comprehensive analysis of a given scenario.