- 20% of
California’s energy is used by the water sector (for conveyance,
treatment, distribution, end-use, and re-use).
- Three-fourths of
California water is used for agriculture.
- 88-90% of the City of L.A.s water is imported.
Crossing
the concrete-lined L.A. River in Long Beach last week, I was struck by the huge
volumes of water flowing to the ocean.
We’re treating storm water as waste.
Recognizing
our shortage of water, and the environmental cost of energy, the L.A.
Department of Water and Power is investing in a master plan to capture storm water.
A Metropolitan Water District study argues that “localization” (increased
conservation and recycling combined with capturing local storm water) can meet
85% of our water needs by 2060. Using local water reduces energy consumption
and carbon impacts. Each year enough water to supply 2.5 million
people runs off LA's surface. It costs
$311 million per year to import the same amount from the Colorado River. In
theory, a billion-dollar investment in storm water capture could be recouped in
just over 3 years.
ALI
has developed a fine-scaled geospatial modeling tool for the 200 square mile
San Fernando Valley. The “calculation
engine” assesses runoff, infiltration and constraints (where you don’t want
water to percolate). Ground water
contamination is prevalent at former aerospace sites and gas stations
throughout the Valley. Channeling runoff
through contaminated soil may exacerbate the condition. Since storm water crosses multiple
jurisdictions, coordinated plans for capturing runoff is required.
In
one case study zone, areas best suited for capturing storm water and
redirecting it to aquifers are residential neighborhoods along the eastern
foothills of Burbank and the northern foothills of Glendale. Water in the front and backyards of homes
redirected underground rather than flowing to streets and gutters will be one
part of a comprehensive regional program for storm water retention.
ALI
is forging partnerships with AIA-LA, Arup, City of L.A. Bureau of Engineering,
Bureau of Sanitation, EPA, Tree People and others to develop the tool for public
testing and implementation. Needed are
storm water capture details to guide the public in implementation of this
critical program.
I
was reminded on July 1st, the California Energy Code goes live. California’s goal is to reach net zero for
new residences by 2020 and new non-residential by 2030. By executive order Governor Brown has set a
goal of net zero for 50% of State-owned buildings by 2025. To reach those goals requires innovative (and
costly) efficiencies and renewable energy.
