Strained Water Supply in Rheda-Wiedenbrück: The Capacity of the Water Network is Overstretched
The United Gas and Water Supply (VGW) based in Rheda-Wiedenbrück is experiencing increased demand for drinking water due to the high temperatures. This increased demand has led to significant challenges for the VGW in supplying drinking water.
To manage this situation, VGW is implementing several measures both on the supply side and through public awareness and engagement.
Managing Increased Water Demand
In response to the increased demand, VGW is considering various options to ensure a steady supply of water. One such measure is the investment in upgrading their water supply infrastructure to handle peak demand periods efficiently. This might include renovating pipes to reduce leaks and improving pumping systems.
Another strategy is the implementation or expansion of water storage facilities. These facilities can store water during periods of normal usage for use during hot weather. This buffer can help mitigate sudden spikes in demand.
Drought management plans are also being developed, which include strategies for reducing non-essential water use during hot weather.
Encouraging Water Conservation
For Citizens:
To encourage water conservation, VGW is conducting public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the importance of water conservation during hot weather. These campaigns highlight simple actions like fixing leaks, using low-flow appliances, and reducing outdoor water use.
VGW is also providing tips on how to save water in daily life, such as taking shorter showers, using drought-resistant plants for gardening, and collecting rainwater for non-potable uses.
In addition, incentives are being offered for citizens who adopt water-saving measures, such as rebates for installing rain barrels or low-flow showerheads.
For Businesses:
VGW is encouraging businesses to conduct water audits to identify areas of inefficiency and implement water-saving technologies. The promotion of efficient irrigation systems and the adoption of water-saving practices in business operations are also being encouraged.
VGW is developing or supporting certifications for businesses that demonstrate significant water conservation efforts. These certifications can enhance a business's reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
Guidelines for Water Usage
Citizens and businesses in the VGW area are urged to reduce their water usage. Water should only be used for necessary purposes: drinking, food preparation, personal hygiene, household cleaning.
Watering gardens should only occur sparingly and in the early morning hours. Gardens should not be watered between 17 and 22 hours. Lawns should not be watered with drinking water. Pools should not be refilled or only very rarely.
The VGW has set its drinking water traffic light to yellow to encourage responsible water usage by private households and businesses. This means that while there is currently no water shortage, it is important to use water responsibly to prevent one from occurring.
Dr. Carsten Behlert, operations manager at VGW, has reported on these issues. He emphasised that the service area of VGW, which includes Geseke, Rheda-Wiedenbrück, and Rietberg, has seen a significant increase in water usage this week. The high demand is putting a lot of strain on the supply network, and the additional use of fire water on Tuesday pushed the network capacity to its limits.
By combining these measures, VGW can effectively manage increased water demand during hot weather while promoting a culture of water conservation among both citizens and businesses.
- To address the increased water demand resulting from climate-change and high temperatures, VGW is considering infrastructure upgrades and expanding water storage facilities to maintain a steady supply, as well as implementing drought management plans.
- Recognizing the importance of environmental-science and policy-and-legislation in addressing this issue, VGW is launching public awareness campaigns to educate citizens and businesses on water conservation, offering incentives for water-saving measures, and encouraging businesses to improve their water efficiency.
- As part of general-news reporting, Dr. Carsten Behlert, operations manager at VGW, has reported on the unprecedented increase in water usage in the service area, urging both households and businesses to use water responsibly to prevent a water shortage.
