Water metering project
Between now and July 2012, Southern Water will be installing water meters to unmetered properties across southern Tasmania.
Prior to 30 June 2012, more than 3,000 business properties will receive a water meter.
To accommodate the needs of each business, Southern Water will work closely with operators to ensure the water meter installation has minimal disruption to business.
Water meters: why they count!
Water meters are an essential tool for measuring how much water each property uses. Once completed, the installation will enable the introduction of two-part pricing for Tasmanians in mid 2012.
Currently, accounts for many unmetered properties are based on property value, which does not fairly reflect how much (or how little!) water is used by residents and businesses.
From 1 July 2012, water will be charged on a two-part basis: a fixed fee to cover the cost of infrastructure, such as dams, reservoirs and pipes; and a fee for the water that’s used, which covers water extraction, pumping and treatment costs.
This is called ‘two-part pricing’, and the transition to this from mid 2012 means a fairer system for all.
Here are just some of the benefits
Water meters mean that every property will be charged for water in the same way. From 1 July 2012, water accounts will comprise a fixed charge for infrastructure, and a variable charge which reflects how much water is used.
Evidence shows that the introduction of water meters leads to a decrease in water usage—something that’s been experienced in every state of Australia when water meters have been installed. This means Southern Water can postpone expensive upgrades to many of its water treatment plants, pipelines and sewage treatment plants. These cost savings mean that, over time, water prices can be kept as low as possible for customers.
Water meters mean that customers will receive information in their account about how much water they use. With that information, they can consider ways, and make informed decisions, to change their water usage patterns and reduce their water charges.
With the information that water meters provide, accounts will provide more information and over time, customers can detect leaks on their property.
Southern Water can also detect hidden leaks in its supply pipes which we cannot do without water meters throughout the system. Detecting and dealing with leaks can make a huge difference to how much water is used. It is estimated that at least 20% of our treated and pumped water is lost through leaks—water that we all pay for!
Water meters lead to a more sustainable environment. Once poured and flushed away, water undergoes a costly treatment process and treated sewage is released back into our environment.
By using only the water we need, we can reduce our impact on the environment—at both ends.
To find out more about water meters and get some answers to many commonly asked questions, download our fact sheet click here.