Water Energy Efficiency Technical Assistance Program

Funder: Oklahoma Office of Energy and Environment (announced February 2022)

Recipient/Administrator: Oklahoma Rural Water Association (ORWA)

Energy efficiency and sustainability program providing technical assistance to Oklahoma communities and water systems on water energy management. Program focuses on leak detection, energy conservation, and sustainability practices to reduce operating costs and increase system capacity.

Geographic Scope: Oklahoma - all water and wastewater systems statewide

Focus Areas:

• Leak detection programs
• Water energy efficiency and conservation
• Sustainability initiatives
• Reduction of source water usage
• Reduction of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions
• Energy assurance activities
• Cost reduction for small communities and rural water systems

Services Provided by ORWA:

• Education and technical assistance in energy efficiency
• Development and dissemination of education and outreach materials
• Conservation and best management practices guidance
• Utility implementation support
• Information on funding options
• On-site technical assistance
• Mobile meter testing
• Collaboration with other ORWA programs and services

Partner Organizations:

• Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ)
• Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB)
• Oklahoma Office of Energy and Environment

Key Information:

• Supports long-term sustainability of water systems
• Focuses on affordability for rural and small communities
• Sets industry standards for energy efficiency
• Helps address aging workforce challenges through education

Contact Information:

• ORWA: 405-672-8925
• office@orwa.org

Application Process

Program provides direct technical assistance and outreach to water systems. The application/enrollment process is not detailed in available materials, but likely involves:

1. Contact ORWA to learn about program services
2. Request on-site technical assistance or other support
3. ORWA dedicated staff collaborate with systems on energy efficiency improvements
4. Systems receive guidance on funding options for implementation

Available Services:

• Education and outreach materials
• Best management practices guidance
• Utility implementation support
• On-site technical assistance
• Mobile meter testing
• Funding option guidance

Contact: ORWA at 405-672-8925 or office@orwa.org to inquire about services