Understanding Water and Effluent Charges

Abstract

The cost of incoming water and the cost to discharge effluent to the sewer vary significantly between municipalities. The basis for these charges is explained. Reducing the volume of incoming water leads to a reduction of the cost and is a strategy being employed by many breweries in North America. However, the impact on the effluent charges is less obvious because as the volume decreases, the concentration of materials sent to drain increases. The effect of reducing incoming volumes in increments of 5% on the effluent parameters, the resultant surcharges, and the overall cost of water and effluent are examined. Actions that can be taken by a brewery to reduce water consumption are discussed. In addition, strategies to reduce effluent loadings are explained. In many cases, the changes required do not involve major capital expenditure. Plant management need to fully understand the basis of the charges for water and effluent and the factors that influence them when making changes.