Planning goals can be developed from different perspectives. These planning Guidelines, including the analysis of the benefits and costs of conservation activities, emphasize a water supplier perspective. The value of conservation is defined primarily in terms of avoided supply-side costs to the water system. Lowering the level of water demand can help water suppliers avoid, downsize, or postpone the construction and operation of costly supply-side facilities. The benefits of conservation also can be understood from the perspectives of customers, as well as society at large.
Conservation benefits society by preserving environmental resources.
Conservation can benefit customers by lowering energy and long-term water costs. The Guidelines and the worksheets can be used to simultaneously address the potential effects of conservation on water and wastewater operations. Conservation planning goals can take many forms. Water systems should state their goals in specific terms. Measurable goals are useful for evaluation purposes.