Resource Management Commission 2nd Quarter Report FY24 Water Conservation Division City of Austin | Austin Water Residential, Multifamily and Commercial Program Participation RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Water Waste/Watering Restrictions Enforcement Activity RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Regulated Compliance Program Activity % Compliant % Non-Compliant 14.1% 16.4% 85.9% 83.6% 34.8% 65.2% C O M M E R C I A L F A C I L I T Y I R R I G A T I O N A S S E S S M E N T S C O M M E R C I A L V E H I C L E W A S H F A C I L I T Y E F F I C I E N C Y A S S E S S M E N T C O O L I N G T O W E R E F F I C I E N C Y A S S E S S M E N T S RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Water Conservation Public Outreach Events RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 My ATX Water Meter (AMI) Installations, FY24 YTD 180,000 160,000 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Quarterly Installations Overall Installations RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Multi-Year Daily Treated Pumpage D G M , e g a s U 190 170 150 130 110 90 70 50 n.............................. a J b............................ e F r.............................. a M 2011 (Dry) 2015 (Wet) 2023 2024 RMC Quarterly Report – Q2, Fiscal Year 2024 Lakes Buchanan and Travis Total Combined Storage Projections City of Austin Drought Contingency Plan Drought Response Stage Triggers: Conservation Stage: Above 1.4 MAF Stage I: 1.4 MAF Stage II: 900,000 AF Stage III: 750,000 AF Stage IV: 600,000 AF Emergency Response Stage V: Catastrophic event including prolonged drought Highland Lakes Storage summary as of May 10, 2024 Combined lake storage: 970,265 acre-feet Combined reservoir total: 49% RMC Monthly Report – Q2 Fiscal Year 2024 Water Conservation Division City of Austin | Austin Water
A review of Austin Energy solar & battery deployment policies, with improvements identified Part 1: The impact of “Value of Solar” on Solar and Battery deployment and use D. SASARIDIS 21 MAY 2024 Content • Problem Statement • Goal • Definitions and Concepts • Value of Solar • Batteries • Solutions Problem Statement Given the importance of swiftly deploying solar and batteries, at scale, in the mission to slow climate change, as is consistent with the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan : Let’s review Austin Energy policy for effectiveness in encouraging deployment and use of these technologies. Goal of this presentation The goal of this presentation, today – is to introduce this work, achieve a common understanding through questions, allow for self study, and allow for challenges to the assumptions and conclusions. Climate Change & The Importance of Solar and batteries Though the applications which lead to CO2 emissions vary widely - ~75% of emissions can be turned off by the availability of carbon-free energy. Source: https://ourworldindata.org/ghg-emissions-by-sector Solar and batteries are the fundamental building blocks of a carbon-free energy present. Solar without batteries More solar power is available than is needed during the day, not enough at night. Note: Solar power data from PVWatts, demand is representative. Plot for illustration purposes. Charge Discharge Solar less than demand? Batteries don’t get used (simplifying a bit). Charge Discharge Excess daytime solar? Batteries charge, then discharge. Charge Charge Discharge Discharge Charge Discharge Key point: The answer to too much mid-day solar is not less solar, it’s more batteries! With enough solar, charge from yesterday gets used in the morning. Definition: Value of Solar Let U be the power measured by the utility meter. Let S be the power measured by the solar meter. Let T be the total power, used by the home, including from the solar panels on this house, and the grid, T = U + S. U is also the net power used by the home, i.e. if U = 0, this is a “net zero” home that is powered by solar panels only. Note that the utility knows U and S, and must add them together to get T, the total power used by that home. Austin Energy uses Value of Solar, and charges the customer for T, using the tier-based rate structure, and pays the customer for S, at a fixed rate of about 9.91 …
Resource Management Commission Resolution to Repurpose GreenChoice Revenues and Increase Dispatchable Renewable Energy DRAFT WHEREAS, the City of Austin aspires to run its municipal electric utility, Austin Energy, completely with carbon-free electricity by 2035; and WHEREAS, a grid based largely on carbon-free energy cannot be realistically accomplished in Texas without energy storage or dispatchable renewable energy sources; and WHEREAS, Austin Energy has done very little to date to adopt energy storage or dispatchable energy into its future plans; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, a program originally designed to enhance adoption of renewable energy by charging customers a different rate, is no longer necessary to increase Austin’s use of renewable energy; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, when properly operating, collects about $7 million in increased revenues that can be repurposed to help transition Austin Energy to a completely carbon-free utility; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice funds can be leveraged with other funding in the public and private sector to magnify its spending power; THEN BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission advise the Austin City Council to repurpose revenues from Austin Energy’s GreenChoice program, leveraging the program’s revenue with grants and investments from other governments and non-profits, public and private electric utilities, and the private sector to fund energy storage and dispatchable renewables; and AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Commission recommend that Council direct Austin Energy to explore other strategies and funding sources as well as GreenChoice revenues in furtherance of the goal of adding more renewable dispatchability to its system.
A review of Austin Energy solar & battery deployment policies, with improvements identified Part 1: The impact of “Value of Solar” on Solar and Battery deployment and use D. SASARIDIS 21 MAY 2024 Content • Problem Statement • Goal • Definitions and Concepts • Value of Solar • Batteries • What’s Next Problem Statement Given the importance of swiftly deploying solar and batteries, at scale, in the mission to slow climate change, as is consistent with the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan : Let’s review Austin Energy policy for effectiveness in meeting these goals. Key question of Part 1: Is Value of Solar, as a policy, consistent with these goals? The goal of this presentation, today – is to introduce this work, achieve a common understanding through questions, allow for self study, and allow for challenges to the assumptions and conclusions. Climate Change & The Importance of Solar and batteries Though the applications which lead to CO2 emissions vary widely - ~75% of emissions can be turned off by the availability of carbon-free energy. Source: https://ourworldindata.org/ghg-emissions-by-sector Solar and batteries are the fundamental building blocks of a carbon-free energy present. Solar without batteries More solar power is available than is needed during the day, not enough at night. Note: Solar power data from PVWatts, demand is representative. Plot for illustration purposes. Charge Discharge Solar less than demand? Batteries don’t get used (simplifying a bit). Charge Discharge Excess daytime solar? Batteries charge, then discharge. Charge Charge Discharge Discharge Charge Discharge Key point: The answer to too much mid-day solar is not less solar, it’s more batteries! With enough solar, charge from yesterday gets used in the morning. Definition: Value of Solar Let U be the power measured by the utility meter. Let S be the power measured by the solar meter. Let T be the total power, used by the home, including from the solar panels on this house, and the grid, T = U + S. U is also the net power used by the home, i.e. if U = 0, this is a “net zero” home that is powered by solar panels only. Note that the utility knows U and S, and must add them together to get T, the total power used by that home. Austin Energy uses Value of Solar, and charges the customer for T, using the tier-based rate structure, and pays the customer …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240521-003 Resolution to Amend the Resource Management Commission Bylaws WHEREAS, in July of 2023, the Resource Management Commission passed a resolution asking for the Austin City Council to expand its purview to advise Council on issues concerning gas utilities operating in the city, including gas company rate cases, gas company franchises; and gas-related environmental or consumer issues; and WHEREAS, no proposed amendments for the Commission’s bylaws were forwarded for the Austin City Council Audit and Finance Committee to consider; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission forward the attached bylaw amendments to the Council Audit and Finance Committee for review. Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi; Commissioner Alison Silverstein Vote: 8-0 For: Against: None Abstentions: None Off Dais: None Absences: Commissioner GeNell Gary Vacancies: District 2 and Mayor’s Office Attest: Natasha Goodwin, Staff Liaison Proposed Resource Management Commission Bylaw Changes BYLAWS OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose of the commission is to: (A) Maintain an overview of all programs, studies and proposals concerning the efficient use of energy, alternate energy technologies, renewable energy resources, including solar and wind, and the conservation of energy, excluding the use of conventional coal, nuclear, natural gas, or petroleum technologies. (B) Serve as a liaison with other city commissions and commissions, including the Electric Utility Commission. (C) Receive public input on alternate energy technologies, renewable energy sources, and on energy conservation. (D) Review and analyze: (1) energy conservation technologies and renewable energy sources as to their short-term and long-term feasibility in the city; (2) energy conservation policies, alternate energy technologies, and renewable energy projects in other cities and states; (3) water conservation policies, alternate technologies, and water conservation projects in other cities and states; and (4) the City Code to identify potential amendments that encourage the use of alternate energy technologies and renewable energy sources, and the conservation of energy. (5) issues concerning natural gas utilities in Austin, including fair and equitable rates and bills, energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, environmental issues related to utility system operation, assistance to low-income customers, progress on the City of Austin’s Climate Equity Plan, and franchise negotiations. (E) Advise the city council: (1) in the developing and reviewing city plans and programs in the area of alternate …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240521-004 Resolution on the Joint Sustainability Committee Environmental Investment Plan Recommendations WHEREAS, the Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation No. 20240430-002 outlines various investments needed to achieve the many aggressive goals of the City’s Climate Equity Plan and other City environmental plans; and WHEREAS, several of these investment recommendations concern alternative energy technologies, renewable energy, and energy and water conservation; and WHEREAS, additional investments in energy efficiency, demand response, local solar, batteries and coal retirement are needed to meet the carbon-free by 2035 goal in the Austin Energy Resource Generation and Climate Protection Plan and the greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals in the Austin Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, decarbonizing city buildings and improving water conservation will also yield greenhouse gas reductions and other co-benefits and aligns with the Water Forward plan, NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT The Resource Management Commission recommends that the City Council pursue funding opportunities for the following programs as recommended by the Joint Sustainability Committee for the City’s Environmental Investment Plan: 1. Expand Austin Energy’s energy efficiency programs More investment is needed to improve building envelopes, attic insulation, air sealing, and install efficient heat pumps for heating and cooling and hot water production, as well as LED lighting and other energy efficiency appliances. Increase funding for existing energy efficiency programs and conduct additional community outreach to inform the community about available local, state, and federal incentives. 2. Expand Austin Energy’s demand response programs Expand price-based demand response programs, including to the residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation sectors, and extend to additional devices and appliances such as electric hot water heaters, home energy management systems, commercial and residential battery storage, electric vehicle smart chargers, and smart meters. 3. Invest in battery energy storage Battery storage is an important part of a decarbonized grid. Austin Energy must invest in utility scale and distributed battery storage to enable retirement of its fossil fuel power plants, flatten the demand curve, and avoid local electric grid price spikes that increase bills. 4. Utility-owned or contracted rooftop solar Austin Energy needs a considerable expansion of local solar to meet energy needs and keep bills affordable. Land is expensive, so rooftop solar is the best locally available clean renewable energy source. Consider designing a program whereby Austin Energy invests directly in customers’ rooftop solar and owns the installation for a set period of time. 5. Shut …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240521-005 Resolution to Repurpose GreenChoice Revenues and Increase Dispatchable Renewable Energy WHEREAS, the City of Austin aspires to run its municipal electric utility, Austin Energy, completely with carbon-free electricity by 2035; and WHEREAS, a grid based largely on carbon-free energy cannot be realistically accomplished in Texas without energy storage or dispatchable renewable energy sources; and WHEREAS, Austin Energy has done very little to date to adopt energy storage or dispatchable energy into its future plans; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, a program originally designed to enhance adoption of renewable energy by charging customers a different rate, is no longer necessary to increase Austin’s use of renewable energy; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice, when properly operating, collects about $7 million in increased revenues that can be repurposed to help transition Austin Energy to a completely carbon-free utility; and WHEREAS, GreenChoice funds can be leveraged with other funding in the public and private sector to magnify its spending power; THEN BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission advises Council to direct Austin Energy to explore other strategies and funding sources as well as GreenChoice revenues in furtherance of the goal of adding more renewable dispatchability to its system; and THEN BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission recommends that Council direct Austin Energy to secure future contracts from wind and solar projects that have associated storage projects which help make renewables more dispatchable. Vote: 7-1 For: Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi; Commissioner Alison Silverstein Against: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair Abstentions: None Off Dais: None Absences: Commissioner GeNell Gary Vacancies: District 2 and Mayor’s Office Attest: Natasha Goodwin, Staff Liaison
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 21, 2024 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 21, 2024 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Louis Stone called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Dino Sasaridis; Commissioner Alison Silverstein. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on April 16, 2024. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission meeting of April 16, 2024 was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Vice Chair Robbins second on an 6-0 vote with Commissioners Farmer and Johnson off the dais, Commissioner Gary absent, and two vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approving issuance of capacity-based incentives to Individuals Directed to Excellence and Achievement (IDEA) Public Schools for installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 700 Showplace Lane, 9504 N IH 35 SVRD SB, 1901 E Wells Branch Parkway, 1438 E Yager Lane, 1701 Vargas Road, 5816 Wilcab Road, and 1700 E Slaughter Lane, in an amount not to exceed $924,858. The motion to approve a recommendation approving the issuance of capacity-based incentives to Individuals Directed to Excellence and Achievement (IDEA) Public Schools failed to pass on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Scaffidi’s second on a 2-1-4 vote with Chair Stone voting against, Vice Chair Robbins, RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Commissioners Johnson, Sasaridis, and Silverstein abstaining, Commissioner Farmer off the dais, Commissioner Gary absent, and two vacancies. STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Staff briefing and process update on the Resource, Generation, and Climate Protection Plan by Lisa Martin, Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer. The briefing was presented by Lisa Martin, Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of Austin Energy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a recommendation to amend the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include review of and advising on all matters related to natural gas companies that serve customers within the City of Austin, including franchise agreements, rates, and conservation programs. The motion to approve a recommendation amending the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include review of and …
Multifamily & Commercial Project Pipeline – Monthly Report 04/02/2024 Figure 1: Commercial and Multifamily Project Pipeline Commercial and Small Business Multifamily t n u o C t c e o r P j 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 55 110 8 10 Pre-Approval in Progress Approved: Installation and Verification 17 Pre-Approval in Progress Approved: Installation and Verification Multifamily Multifamily Income Qualified 1. Figures includes all leads and applications, regardless of estimated rebate amount. In coordination with the customer and contractor, Austin Energy periodically removes leads and new applications that do not proceed to Installation. a. “Pre-Approval in Progress” includes: 1) customer/contractor submitted leads; 2) applications in development but not yet submitted to Austin Energy; and 3) applications submitted to Austin Energy that are under review for eligibility and approval of project scope. b. “Approved: Installation and Verification” includes projects: 1) approved with installation underway; and 2) where installation is complete and final inspection and quality review are ongoing. c. Paid projects are listed on the preceding RMC summary table in this report. 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 t n u o C t c e o r P j 145 Project Pipeline Notes: 2. Pipeline Definitions Multifamily & Commercial Project Pipeline – Monthly Report 04/02/2024 Table 1: Multifamily and Multifamily Income Qualified – Estimated RCA Project Pipeline (for estimated rebates >$72k) Program Latest Workflow Enrollment (s) # Location Name Installation Address Council District Estimated kW savings Estimated kWh savings Estimated $ Incentive Installation Lincoln Oaks 263.3 766,330 $257,806 11700 Metric Blvd 1266038, 1279735, 1292608, 1292617 Measures Planned Phase 1 (Complete): Water Saving Devices, Phase 2 (In Progress): LED Lighting, Plenum Remediation & Seal, HVAC Tune-Up, Smart Thermostats Total # of Units 296 Installation 1277574 Buckingham Place Duplexes 743 YARSA BLVD Installation 1301882 West Koenig Flats 5608 Avenue F 34.2 159,495 $74,700 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats 166 39.0 185,377 $109,200 HVAC Tune-up, Smart Thermostats 210 Installation 1299361 79.6 286,993 $151,432 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats, LED Lighting 292 Installation 1303113 53.5 256,991 $124,640 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats 304 Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Installation 1301185 Elan East 59.0 327,616 $121,687 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats, Water Saving Devices, ECAD Multifamily Installation 1300529 34.1 143,396 $100,399 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats, Attic Insulation Multifamily Installation 1294015 20.5 79,775 $77,004 HVAC Tune-Ups Multifamily Installation 1290116 142.3 …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION April 16, 2024 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters; 1st Floor; Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Resource Management Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Natasha Goodwin, at Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com or 512-322-6505. AGENDA Members: Louis Stone, Chair Paul Robbins, Vice Chair Melissa Carugati Charlotte Davis Trey Farmer GeNell Gary Shane Johnson Dino Sasaridis CALL MEETING TO ORDER Chelsey Scaffidi Alison Silverstein Vacant PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on APPROVAL OF MINUTES March 19, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approving issuance of a 5-year performance-based incentive to Starwood Capital Group LLC, for the installation of solar electric systems on their facility located at 10814 Jollyville Road, Austin, TX 78759, in an amount not to exceed $70,125.91. 3. Recommend approval of a resolution adopting the Water Conservation Plan, as required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and repealing Resolution No. 20190411-002. 4. Recommend approval of a resolution adopting a Drought Contingency Plan, as required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and repealing Resolution No. 20160505-004. 5. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair of the Resource Management Commission. The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at (512) 322-6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Resource Management Commission, please contact Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at 512-322- 6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com . STAFF BRIEFINGS 6. Staff Briefing on Austin’s Drought Contingency Plan and …
..De Posting Language ..Title Approve issuance of a 5-year performance-based incentive to Starwood Capital Group LLC, for the installation of solar electric systems on their facility located at 10814 Jollyville Road #4, Austin, TX 78759, in an amount not to exceed $70,125.91. Lead Department Austin Energy Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $70,125.91 is available in the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Austin Energy Operating Budget. Prior Council Action: November 30, 2023-Council approved a 5-year performance-based incentive for the Starwood Capital Group, LLC. For More Information: Amy Everhart, Director Local Government Issues (512) 322-6087; Tim Harvey, Customer Renewable Solutions Manager (512) 482-5386. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: April 15, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. April 16, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Resource Management Commission. Additional Backup Information: Austin Energy requests approval to issue this 5-year performance-based (PBI) to the Customer for the installation of a solar electric system to produce renewable energy for on-site consumption. The table below provides a summary of the system size, cost, proposed incentive, and environmental benefits: Solar System Details* Total System Size (kW-DC) Total System Size (kW-AC) Annual Estimated Production (kWh) Total System Cost ($) *Does not include panel and inverter cost Total Incentive ($) Percent of Cost Covered Reduction of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in tons Reduction of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) in pounds Reduction of Nitrogen Oxide (NOX) in pounds 135,509 $101,548.35 $70,125.91 69% 92 76 61 68 95 Environmental Benefits** and Emission Reduction Equivalencies*** Equivalency of Vehicle Miles Driven Equivalency of Cars on Austin Roadways Equivalency of Trees Planted Equivalency of Forest Acreage Added *All solar equipment meets Austin Energy program requirements ** Environmental Benefits based on the US Energy Information Association’s state-wide electricity profile 141,862 12.3 915 66 *** According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Greenhouse Gas Equivalency Calculator Starwood Capital Group is a private investment firm with a core focus on global real estate, energy infrastructure and oil & gas. The Firm and its affiliates maintain 16 offices in seven countries around the world, and currently have approximately 4,500 employees. Since its inception in 1991, Starwood Capital Group has raised over $70 billion of capital, and currently has over $120 billion of assets under management. For these projects, Starwood Capital Group has already procured panels and inverters, so those costs are not represented in the “Total System Cost” above. The proposed solar system is …
..De Posting Language ..Title Approve a resolution adopting the Water Conservation Plan, as required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and repealing Resolution No. 20190411-002. Lead Department Austin Water. Fiscal Note This item has no fiscal impact. Prior Council Action: May 5, 2016 – Council approved Resolution 20160505-0004, adopting a new Drought Contingency Plan and applicable revisions to the City Code, Chapter 6-4 (Water Conservation). November 29, 2018- Council approved adoption of Water Forward, Austin’s Integrated Water Resource Plan. April 11, 2019 – Council approved Resolution No. 20190411-002, repealing Resolution No. 20140417-004 and adopting the Utility Profile & Water Conservation Plan for Municipal and Wholesale Water Use as required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. For More Information: Inquiries should be directed to Blanca Madriz, Austin Water Program Coordinator at 512-972-0115 or blanca.madriz@austintexas.gov. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: April 16, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Resource Management Commission April 17, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Water and Wastewater Commission. Additional Backup Information: Austin is required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to file a Drought Contingency Plan and a Water Conservation Plan under 30 Texas administrative Code (TAC) 288. A Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) establishes a series of drought stages and the measures to curtail water use during specific times of drought. A Water Conservation Plan (WCP) describes a utility’s water use profile and describes water conservation goals and programs to reduce water use and otherwise increase water use efficiency. These plans are required to be updated on a five-year basis and submitted to TCEQ. Recommended Changes from the 2019 Utility Profile & Water Conservation Plan: • Update data on drinking water and reclaimed water treatment capacity, service area population, and municipal and wholesale water usage to reflect current conditions. • Update information regarding water conservation program activities o Public education and information o Residential customer programs o Commercial/multi-family customer programs o Regulatory programs o Water loss mitigation o Reclaimed water and onsite water reuse.
..De Posting Language ..Title Approve a resolution adopting a Drought Contingency Plan, as required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and repealing Resolution No. 20160505-004. Lead Department Austin Water. Fiscal Note This item has no fiscal impact. Prior Council Action: May 5, 2016 – Council approved Resolution 20160505-0004, adopting a new Drought Contingency Plan and applicable revisions to the City Code, Chapter 6-4 (Water Conservation) November 29, 2018 – Council approved adoption of Water Forward, Austin’s Integrated Water Resource Plan. April 11, 2019 – Council approved Resolution No. 20190411-002, repealing Resolution No. 20140417-004 and adopting the Utility Profile & Water Conservation Plan for Municipal and Wholesale Water Use as required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. For More Information: Inquiries should be directed to Blanca Madriz, Austin Water Program Coordinator at 512-972-0115 or blanca.madriz@austintexas.gov. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: April 16, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Resource Management Commission April 17, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Water and Wastewater Commission. Additional Backup Information: Austin is required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to file a Drought Contingency Plan and a Water Conservation Plan under 30 Texas administrative Code (TAC) 288. A Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) establishes a series of drought stages and the measures to curtail water use during specific times of drought. A Water Conservation Plan (WCP) describes a utility’s water use profile and describes water conservation goals and programs to reduce water use and otherwise increase water use efficiency. These plans are required to be updated on a five-year basis and submitted to TCEQ. Austin’s last DCP was approved by Council in 2016. The TCEQ accepted resubmission of the 2016 DCP to fulfill the required update in 2019. Austin is also required by its 2007 agreement with the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) to develop a DCP that is in alignment with the targets and goals of LCRA’s Drought Contingency Plan. The LCRA Board of Directors have recently approved various changes to their plan. City staff actively participated in LCRA’s process to update their DCP and have subsequently recommended updates to our plan that include changes in drought trigger levels that align with LCRA’s revisions. In addition to providing input to LCRA’s DCP update process, City staff engaged in several activities aimed at soliciting input from Austin Water customers regarding potential changes to Austin’s DCP. Staff launched a Speak …
2024 Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plans Updates Resource Management Commission – April 16, 2024 Kevin Critendon, P.E., Assistant Director Agenda Water Supply Planning Overview Proposed Water Conservation Plan (WCP) Proposed Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) Next Steps 2 Austin’s Water Supply: 325,000 Acre Feet Per Year Colorado River • Combination of State-granted water rights & long-term contract with LCRA • Up to 325,000 acre- feet per year (afy) LCRA reservation & use fees pre-paid in 1999 • Additional use payments trigger when average for 2 consecutive years exceeds 201,000 afy Centralized Reclaimed System 3 What plans and why do we need them? Texas utilities must provide a Water Conservation Plan (WCP) and a Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) Required by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) every 5 years WCPs identify programmatic activities aimed at reducing overall water consumption and improve water use efficiency 4 DCPs identify water supply triggers and related drought response activities How are these plans different? Water Conservation Plan (WCP) Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) Plan for all weather conditions Focuses on drought conditions Describes Describes • Utility and water use information • Conservation (rebates, education, enforcement) • Water loss reduction • Reuse activities Includes water consumption and water loss • Drought Stages • Drought Triggers (demand and supply) • Drought Actions & Restrictions Must be consistent with the LCRA DCP Requires Chapter 6-4 changes goals 5 How does this work regionally with our water supply partner? LCRAs Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) AWs DCP aligns with LCRAs DCP LCRA recently updated its DCP on March 26, 2024 LCRAs significant updates include: • Adjusting drought trigger levels (From 4 stages to 5 stages) • Adding LCRAs inflow trigger for Drought Stage 2 • Adding specific drought condition water use restrictions 6 Austin’s Water Conservation Plan (WCP) Public education & outreach Residential assistance Incentive programs Regulatory programs Water loss reduction Water reuse 7 2024 WCP Updates Updated program activity and water savings Increased integration with My ATX Water Updated Conservation Goals and Water Loss goals 8 2024 WCP Proposed Goals Based on a 5-year average and measure attainable achievements and updated targets for: • Total Population Gallons Per Capita per Day (GPCD) reduction of water use • Residential Gallons Per Capita …
Water Conservation Plan and Utility Profile CITY OF AUSTIN WATER CONSERVATION PLAN Developed to Meet Requirements Outlined in 30 TAC §288.2 and §288.5 May 2, 2024 Page 1 of 50 Water Conservation Plan and Utility Profile Page 2 of 50 Water Conservation Plan and Utility Profile Message from the Director Thank you for your interest in Austin’s most precious natural resource: water. The city was founded in the mid-1800s on the banks of the Colorado River to take advantage of that abundant water resource. Our water supply is just as critical today, but now we face unprecedented challenges: record high temperatures, record low flows into the Highland Lakes, water quality concerns, and continued rapid population growth. Together, we can meet these challenges. The City of Austin’s 100-year Water Forward Integrated Water Resources Plan is focused on water conservation and water use efficiency, as well as strategies to strengthen the diversity of Austin’s water supply. Austin has come a long way over the last decade – in 2023, we used essentially the same amount of water as we did in 2011, despite having 140,000 more residents. But the impacts from climate change require us to become even more water-wise and water-efficient. The update of this Water Conservation Plan is required by the State of Texas every five years to provide short-term strategies to address changing conditions. Even more importantly, the update is a necessary part of the city’s future sustainability. This document describes Austin Water’s conservation initiatives, programs, and projects to help residents and businesses increase their water use efficiency. In addition, it describes how Austin Water is maximizing our water supply from the Highland Lakes through conservation and water reuse. Learn more about what you can do to conserve our most precious resource at AustinWater.org. Shay Ralls Roalson, P.E. Austin Water Director Page 3 of 50 Water Conservation Plan and Utility Profile Table of Contents Executive Summary 5 Conservation Program History 7 Public Education and Information 9 Residential Customer Programs 11 Commercial Customer Programs 15 Regulatory Programs 17 Metering and Water Loss 20 Water Reuse 23 Water Rates 25 Goals for Water Use and Water Loss 26 Utility Profile 30 System Data 35 Appendices 42 Page 4 of 50 Water Conservation Plan and Utility Profile Executive Summary The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Texas Water Development Board require an update to the City of Austin’s Water Conservation Plan …
CITY OF AUSTIN DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN Developed to Meet Requirements Outlined in 30 TAC § 288.20 and § 288.22 Water Conservation Division City of Austin, Texas PWS # 2270001 May 2, 2024 City of Austin Drought Contingency Plan Table of Contents SECTION I: Declaration of Policy, Purpose and Intent ................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. SECTION II: Background ........................................................................ ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. SECTION III: Trigger Conditions and Goals .................................................................................................... 8 SECTION IV: Drought Response Measures .................................................................................................. 11 SECTION V: Wholesale Contract Provisions ................................................................................................ 20 SECTION VI: Public Involvement ..................................................................................................................... 20 SECTION VII: Public Notification and Education ........................................................................................ 21 SECTION VIII: Coordination with Regional Planning Groups (RPG)...................................................... 21 SECTION IX: TCEQ Notification ....................................................................................................................... 21 SECTION X: Plan Review and Updates .......................................................................................................... 21 APPENDIX A: Water Conservation Code ....................................................................................................... 22 APPENDIX B: Water Conservation Penalty Code ........................................................................................ 23 APPENDIX C: Water Use Triggers for Water Use Management Ordinance .......................................... 24 APPENDIX D: Resolutions In Support of Adoption of The Drought Contingency Plan .................... 25 APPENDIX E: Resolution Adopting The 2024 Drought Contingency Plan ........................................... 26 APPENDIX F: Transmittal Letter to Regional Planning Group ................................................................. 27 APPENDIX F: Public Response to November 2023 Survey ........... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 1 City of Austin Drought Contingency Plan DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN City of Austin, Texas May 2024 Section I: Declaration of Policy, Purpose and Intent The City of Austin (the City) maintains a decades-long commitment to ensuring a sustainable water supply through demand management measures. The latest update to Austin’s Drought Contingency Plan (the Plan) builds upon this legacy. This iteration of the Plan retains all measures from previous versions while incorporating new strategies to better address droughts in the future. Designed as a comprehensive strategy, the Plan focuses on addressing water shortages and emergencies, with specific attention to domestic water use, sanitation, fire protection, and public well-being. In accordance with Section 11.1272 of the Texas Water Code and Chapter 288 of Title 30 of the Texas Administrative Code, the City regularly updates this plan, underscoring the importance of adaptability to evolving water supply dynamics. This document outlines the City's strategic response to challenges posed by demand surges, infrastructure constraints, and droughts, including historical critical droughts. Through coordination with the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), the Drought Contingency Plans of both the LCRA and the City are consistent in terms of targets and goals. The City’s plan is more proactive, including the implementation activities necessary …
