Non-Revenue Water (NRW)

Non-Revenue Water (NRW) is a critical focus area for the Dire Dawa Water Supply and Sewerage Authority. NRW represents the portion of produced water that does not generate revenue due to losses such as leaks, theft, or inefficient metering. Reducing NRW is essential for ensuring a sustainable and cost-effective water supply.

What is Non-Revenue Water?

NRW includes all water that is produced but not billed to customers. It can be categorized into three main components:

1. Physical Losses: Water lost through leaks in pipelines, reservoirs, or other infrastructure.
2. Commercial Losses: Water that is illegally tapped or unbilled due to inaccurate metering or unauthorized connections.
3. Unbilled Authorized Consumption: Water provided for public services, such as firefighting or municipal parks, that is not charged to customers.

Challenges of NRW

High levels of NRW pose several challenges:

• Revenue Loss: Significant financial impact on the Authority’s ability to reinvest in infrastructure.
• Water Scarcity: Wasted water affects the availability of resources for other users.
• Operational Inefficiency: Increased production costs without corresponding revenue generation.

Our Approach to Reducing NRW

The Dire Dawa Water Supply and Sewerage Authority is committed to addressing NRW through the following strategies:

• Leak Detection and Repair: Regular maintenance and advanced technology to identify and fix leaks quickly.
• Upgrading Infrastructure: Replacing aging pipelines and outdated water systems to minimize losses.
• Metering Accuracy: Implementing modern, smart water meters to ensure accurate billing.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the community about the importance of conserving water and reporting illegal connections.