As more water utilities consider using one of a variety of conservation-oriented water rate structures to help promote the efficient use of water, the actual effectiveness of these rate structures is sometimes called into question. Uniform rates, seasonal rates, inverted-block rates and excess-use rates have been used to provide pricing signals that promote water conservation, particularly for residential water users. This paper examines the effectiveness of these various rates structures both to convey appropriate pricing signals and to help support broader conservation efforts. Several case examples of water systems that use these conservation-oriented rate structures are examined, including a review of how their water usage has changed over time. The paper concludes with several suggestions for those water utilities that are considering implementing one of these rate structures.
Product Details
Published: 01/01/1995 ISBN(s): 0898678315 Number of Pages: 18File Size: 1 file , 730 KB