Calgary Aims to Reduce Water Loss to 15% by 2030 Amidst Leak Challenges
Calgary lost 23% of its treated water last year to leaks. What’s the plan to fix it?
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Calgary lost 23% of its treated water last year due to leaks in its distribution network, prompting city officials to implement the Accelerated Water Loss Program. This initiative aims to reduce water loss to 15% by 2030 through improved leak detection and infrastructure investment.
- 01Calgary's water loss has fluctuated between 20% and 24% from 2019 to 2025, with 23% reported last year.
- 02The city plans to invest $342 million over four years to address water loss, significantly increasing from the previous budget's $168 million.
- 03The Accelerated Water Loss Program aims to replace 10 km of water main pipe in 2026, increasing to 15 km annually from 2027.
- 04Challenges in detecting leaks arise due to Calgary's porous soil, making many leaks difficult to surface.
- 05City officials emphasize that reducing water loss is more cost-effective than building a new water treatment plant.
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Calgary experienced a significant loss of treated water, with 23% of its supply lost to leaks in the distribution network last year. This issue has persisted, with losses ranging from 20% to 24% since 2019. The city attributes these losses to aging infrastructure, including over 5,500 km of pipes and various service connections. In response, the city has introduced the Accelerated Water Loss Program, which aims to reduce water loss to 15% by 2030. This plan includes enhanced leak detection, improved measurement systems, and a commitment to replace 10 km of water main pipes in 2026, increasing to 15 km annually from 2027. The city administration has proposed a budget of $342 million for the next four years, emphasizing that investing in infrastructure is more economical than constructing a new water treatment facility. City councillors are currently debating the funding during upcoming budget discussions, highlighting the urgency of addressing the city's water loss crisis.
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The significant water loss impacts Calgary's water supply sustainability and infrastructure integrity, necessitating urgent repairs.
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