Solutions to Reduce Water Loss in Kenya

Water loss, also known as non-revenue water, is a major issue in Kenya, as it not only increases operating expenses for water providers, but also leads to increased energy use for both power and fuel.

One of the main ways in which water loss increases operating expenses is through the need for additional water treatment and pumping. When water is lost through leaks in pipes or faulty meters, it must be replaced through increased pumping and treatment. This not only increases the cost of water production, but also puts a strain on energy resources, as more power and fuel is needed to pump and treat the additional water.

Furthermore, water loss can also lead to decreased water pressure in the distribution system, which can result in decreased efficiency of water treatment and pumping systems. This can lead to even more energy being used to pump and treat water, further increasing operating expenses.

One solution to this problem is the use of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI). AMI systems use advanced technology to accurately measure water usage and detect leaks and other issues in the distribution system. This allows water providers to quickly identify and address water loss, reducing the need for additional pumping and treatment and decreasing energy consumption.

In Kenya, several major cities including Nairobi and Mombasa, are already implementing AMI systems to address water loss. For example, Eldoret Water and Sewerage Company (ELDOWAS) has installed AMI in several areas of the city and has seen a significant reduction in water loss as a result. This not only helps to reduce operating expenses and energy consumption, but also ensures a more reliable and sustainable water supply for the city’s residents.

Overall, water loss is a major issue in Kenya and other countries, causing not only financial loses but also environmental and societal issues. However, by implementing advanced metering infrastructure, water providers can effectively address water loss and decrease operating expenses and energy consumption. Such implementation is vital for Kenya’s major cities to ensure sustainable water supply for its residents.

By Bernard KipKemoi