An Assessment of Water Affordability and Conservation Potential in Detroit, Michigan

June 30, 2020
Report cover

AWE’s report, An Assessment of Water Affordability and Conservation Potential in Detroit, Michigan, evaluates water affordability and water conservation potential at the census tract level. Water affordability is an incredibly important issue, and the Alliance for Water Efficiency is dedicated to advancing the conversation by applying and evaluating measures of affordability and quantifying the benefits of water conservation. Through our efforts we aim to better understand and define the problem, and work toward solutions to help communities that are disproportionately impacted by water and sewer bills.

The report demonstrates:

  • There is a clear need for assistance in Detroit as the cost of water and sewer service is characterized as a high burden.
  • There is large potential for water conservation savings.
  • There is a meaningful role for water conservation to empower customers to lower water and sewer bills.
  • There is value in conducting an affordability assessment at higher resolutions than at the city or service-area level.

To view the corresponding webinar summarizing the findings of this report, click here.