EPA 800-R-15-004
                                                       December 2015
                                    POWER RESILIENCE
             &EPA
            epa.gov/waterresiliency
                                    Guide for Water and Wastewater Utilities
Communication
  Power
Assessments
 Energy
Efficiency  *
                                                On-site Power
Funding

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                       Overview
                       This guide includes information from water industry
                       professionals on how to increase power resilience in
                       disasters. The purpose of this guide is to:

                       •  Promote coordination and communication between
                          water sector utilities and their electric utilities; and

                       •  Provide strategies to increase water utilities' resilience
                          to power loss.

                       An extended power loss can have devastating impacts
                       on drinking water and wastewater  utilities and the
                       communities they serve. Inoperable pumps at a drinking
                       water utility can make firefighting difficult and cause local
                       health care facilities and restaurants to close. A loss in
                       pressure can result in contamination entering the drinking
                       water distribution system from surrounding soil and groundwater. For wastewater utilities, losing pumps may lead to
                       direct discharge of untreated sewage to rivers and streams or sewage backup into homes and businesses.
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                     Seven areas in which water sector utilities can increase power resilience are:
                 1.  Communication - Establish connections with electric providers, local agencies, and the public to help
                    your utility respond more quickly and efficiently to a power loss.


                 2.  Power Assessments - Learn how to conduct a power assessment to understand the energy needs of
                    your essential infrastructure.


                 3.  Generators - Learn how to select and maintain a generator for your utility.


                 4.  Fuel - Develop plans to ensure you have enough fuel for your generator during a power outage
                    emergency.


                 5.  Energy Efficiency- Increase your energy efficiency to allow you to operate on back-up power longer
                    during emergencies and reduce your electricity bills.


                 6.  On-site Power - Consider options for generating your own power.


                 7.  Funding - Learn about possible funding sources for resilience measures.
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    Communication
                            1.  Communication
            Stepl
          Contacts
            Step 2
    Key Information
            Step3
   Prioritization List
            Step 4
Training & Exercises
            Step5
    Public Outreach
      TOP TIP: Get your utility on the priority list for power restoration.
      Good relationships and information sharing between water and electric utilities and local emergency response agencies
      are critical to getting power quickly restored after an outage. Depending on your local communication and response
      procedures, you may call your electric utility directly or you may need to coordinate through an emergency management
      agency (EMA).  If you are uncertain about how to reach out to your EMA, see EPA's Coordination of the Water and
      Emergency Services Sectors: An Important Step to Better Response.

      It is important that you are familiar with your county's emergency protocols and how response decisions are made.
      This is particularly true with respect to the power restoration prioritization list. Depending on your county's emergency
      protocols, the order in which power is restored to local critical infrastructure, such as your water utility, may be
      determined by your electric power provider, the local EMA, or elected officials such as county commissioners. Your utility's
      placement on the prioritization list should be informed by details regarding your power needs and the consequences to
      the community should you have to cease operations due to a power failure. Be sure you know who makes the power
      restoration prioritization list for your community and take steps to share relevant information  with them.
                                                                     Did you know?

                                                                     When an electric utility is restoring service after a major outage, it
                                                                     generally prioritizes transmission lines, substations, main circuits,  critical
                                                                     customers, residential lines, transformers, and then individual houses.
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    Communication
Step 1  - Make Contacts
            Stepl
          Contacts
            Step 2
    Key Information
            Step3
   Prioritization List
            Step 4
Training & Exercises
            Step5
    Public Outreach
   Get to know the key staff at your electric
   utility. When possible, have face-to-face
   meetings.

   Ask for 24/7 emergency contact
   information for the electric utility, the local
   EMA, and the local Emergency Operations
   Center (EOC).

   Ensure that your community's emergency
   manager has your contact information in
   his or her cell phone so that when you call,
   your name will be recognized.
                                                                          Did you know?

                                                                          Many agencies and organizations share information and resources
                                                                          to support incident management activities at Emergency
                                                                          Operations Centers (EOCs). EOCs focus on the response to and the
                                                                          short-term recovery from an incident or natural disaster.
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    Communication
Step 2 •  Request Key  Information
             Stepl
          Contacts
             Step 2
    Key Information
             Step3
   Prioritization List
             Step 4
Training & Exercises
             Step5
    Public Outreach
   Physical locations of critical assets.  Make
   sure the electric utility has the physical
   locations of all critical components of your
   water or wastewater system, as the physical
   address of your facilities can differ from your
   administrative address. Give the physical
   address when reporting an outage.

   Two-way radio capability.  Check if your
   electric utility is able to use two-way radios
   in case landline and cellular phone coverage
   are lost during an emergency.  Be sure your
   radios are compatible with your response
   partners.

   EOC street address.  Know where your local
   EOC is so that you can go there during an
   emergency if needed.
                                                                             Did you know?

                                                                             Most EOCs have electric utility representatives. During a disaster,
                                                                             call the EOC if you have trouble contacting your electric utility.
                                                                             Better yet, obtain a seat for your utility at the EOC and you will be
                                                                             able to directly coordinate with the electric utility representative.
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    Communication
Step 3 - Get on the Priority  Power Restoration List
             Stepl
          Contacts
             Step 2
    Key Information
             Step3
   Prioritization List
             Step 4
Training & Exercises
             Step5
    Public Outreach
   Ask your electric utility who manages the power restoration prioritization list.

   Ask the agency or individual managing the list about your utility's prioritization status.

   Inform the agency or individual managing the list of your "storm-ready" capabilities and be sure that they understand
   the consequences to the community of drinking water and wastewater service disruptions.

   Inform the agency or individual responsible for the list of the critical assets at your utility that rely on grid power.
                                          Case Study:

                                          Dominion Virginia Power has worked closely with local Emergency
                                          Operation Centers (EOCs) to identify the 10-20 most critical services in
                                          each of the EOC's jurisdictions.  Once identified, these critical facilities
                                          are further assigned Special Condition Categories, and water and sewage
                                          treatment facilities are considered "Critical Infrastructure." These
                                          "Special Conditions" accounts are flagged so Dominion knows instantly
                                          when a water or wastewater treatment facility loses power. An intranet
                                          application allows Dominion Power to remain focused on these locations
                                          to ensure critical infrastructure accounts receive the highest restoration
                                          priority.

                                          In addition, during large-scale power outages, Dominion Power
                                          establishes Electric Regional Operations Centers  to better manage its
                                          response. Water utilities have a direct line to these centers and to
                                          representatives of Dominion Power.
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    Communication
Step 4 - Train and Exercise
             Stepl
          Contacts
             Step 2
    Key Information
             Step3
   Prioritization List
             Step 4
Training & Exercises
             Step5
    Public Outreach
Training and exercises allow water utility staff to learn, practice, test, and improve emergency response plans (ERPs) and
procedures. Many times these plans and procedures involve response partners, so consider the following options to
enhance your training and exercises:

•   If your utility conducts planning activities or annual exercises, invite staff from your electric utility and local EMA.
    •   EPA offers a Tabletop Exercise Tool for Water Systems to help utilities develop exercises for different scenarios.
    •   EPA also developed How to Develop a Multi-Year Training and Exercise (T&E) Plan to help water utilities create
       successful training plans.

•   Ask your electric utility if you can attend any exercises or planning activities it hosts.

•   Ask your local EMA to include both your utility and the electric utility in its exercises.

•   Share your emergency response plans with your electric utility and EMA and ask for information and  updates on their
    plans.
                                                                  Grid hardening - Activities such as tree-
                                                                  trimming help prevent weather related power
                                                                  outages. When talking to your electric utility,
                                                                  you can ask what grid hardening steps are
                                                                  being taken and what you can do to help. For
                                                                  example, do you have the resources to assist in
                                                                  tree-trimming? If your water utility has a remote
                                                                  pump station in the woods serviced by electric
                                                                  power from street lines, consider installing that
                                                                  service line underground along the access road.
                                                                  Although this is more expensive than typical
                                                                  pole installation, the service line will be better
                                                                  protected from tree falls.
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    Communication
Step 5 - Communicating with the Public
            Stepl
          Contacts
            Step 2
    Key Information
            Step3
   Prioritization List
            Step 4
Training & Exercises
            Step5
    Public Outreach
   Appoint a communications manager or Public Information Officer who can assist in getting the right messages out to
   your customers before, during, and after emergencies. This helps your customers prepare for outages and know when
   services may be restored.

   Contact local news and radio stations to broadcast your messages or post on their mobile applications.

   Post signs near different community gates and on community bulletin boards at Town or City Hall.

   Ask the fire department, local  EMA and municipal office to help with your public messages.  They may already have
   emergency communication systems such as reverse 911 in place.

   Develop an automated system to send emails and text messages to customers. Some areas may already have an
   emergency texting service that you can use.

   Post frequent, time-stamped updates on your utility's website.

   Utilize social  media by posting updated information with a Facebook or Twitter account.
                                                                               Eye On the Weather - Weather services can usually
                                                                               forecast storms 24 hours or more ahead of time. EPA's
                                                                               to monitor and track all types of weather. For ice storms, you
                                                                               Index™), which gives a 0-5 ice accumulation and ice damage
                                                                               prediction index. The SPIA IndexTM covers the continental
                                                                               United States and provides predictions days before a storm,
                                                                               including power outage duration possibilities.
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Power Assessments
                          2.  Power Assessments
           Stepl
           Assess
           Step 2
        Document
     TOP TIP:  Enter your power assessment results into the Emergency Power Facility Assessment Tool (EPFAT)
     database to get a state or federally provided generator sooner in a regional emergency.
     Power assessments determine the power requirements for critical equipment at your utility that are necessary to
     maintain water and wastewater services.  A power assessment must be performed by a qualified electrician. The
     electrician will inspect all infrastructure assets at your utility. Critical infrastructure components will be unique at each
     utility, but usually include treatment processes and key pumping stations.  This information is required to properly size an
     emergency generator(s).
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Power Assessments
Step 1. - Conduct a Power Assessment at Your Utility
           Stepl
           Assess
           Step 2
        Document
   Conduct a Self-Assessment - Perform your own power assessment, with the assistance of a qualified electrician.  EPA
   developed the Is Your Water or Wastewater System Prepared? What You Need to Know about Generators factsheet
   that helps utilities to better prepare for emergency generator needs, provides tips on running and maintaining
   generators, and includes an easy-to-copy form to determine and document backup power needs.

   Call Prime Power - The 249th Engineer Battalion, assigned to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USAGE), provides free
   electric power assessments for utilities. They can be reached at 800-243-3472 or 703-805-2562.

   When you upgrade your facilities or build new components, re-assess your power requirements to determine if you
   also need to add generator capacity.
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Power Assessments
Step 2. - Keep  Records  of Your Assessment
            Stepl
           Assess
            Step 2
         Document
   Maintain a copy of all information from the power assessment with your emergency response plan (ERP), so you can
   easily locate it during emergencies. You should have a summary of the power requirements, siting requirements,
   and the location and capacity of any existing on-site generators at all critical infrastructure components. Use the form
   referenced in Step 1 above to capture this information.

   Input your generator information in the  USAGE database called the Emergency Power Facility Assessment Tool (EPFAT).
   States and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) use this database during widespread power outages
   to quickly determine where and what kind of generators may be needed.  Enrollment  in EPFAT is free.

   Keep your power assessment information up to date. The EPFAT database will remind you every three years to review
   your data.
                                                                          US Army Corps of Engineers
                                          Home  My Account *  Help -  Contact Us  Emergency Power - ENGLink  EPFAT Tutorial VideoEPFAT Tutorial Video

                                       Welcome to the Emergency Power Facility Assessment Tool
                                    This web site offers you the opportunity to enter and store the information for your
                                   respective critical public facility generator requirements along with required connection
                                   materials.  Having this data in the database will assist in expediting installations at your
                                   facilities following some type of event where commercial power is unavailable. This web
                                  site also offers you a permanent storage location for that information also allowing you the
                                   ability to update the information as facility requirements change. We recommend you
                                  review the "How-To-Guide" on this page for using this web site prior to entering your data.
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  Generators
                      3.  Generators
      Stepl
        Size
TOP TIP: Know what type of generators you need and where you would get them during a power outage.
      Step 2
  Ownership
      StepS
    Fuel Type
Choosing a Generator

Once you know your generator requirements, you need to make a number of decisions to find the best one for your
utility. As you compare generator options, check local, state, and federal regulations to make sure that your generator
meets all specifications. For example, you may need to obtain a permit to emit exhaust from stationary generators.
EPA's website provides additional information on the federal regulations for stationary internal combustion engines.
      Step 4
  Connection
      Step5
   Placement
      Step 6
 Maintenance
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  Generators
Step  1  - What size generator do I need?
       Stepl
        Size
       Step 2
   Ownership
       StepS
    Fuel Type
       Step 4
  Connection
       Step5
   Placement
       Step 6
 Maintenance
The first step in choosing a generator for your utility is to determine
the right size.  Your power assessment can help you size your
generator(s). In addition to knowing your equipment's electricity
requirements, consider the following when sizing your generator:

•   If you are relying on a single, large generator (e.g., greater
   than 500 kW), think about installing two smaller generators in
    parallel to increase backup power reliability.

•   Determine  whether a portable or stationary generator will work
    best for your critical infrastructure assets. Portable generators
   would be best for smaller electric demands that do not require
    uninterrupted power. These generators can also be  transported
   to multiple sites.
                               Video: Paralleling Generators
   If your electric demands are great, consider
   larger, stationary generators fueled by either
   natural gas or diesel. These generators can
   start-up within seconds of a power outage
   and provide uninterrupted power to critical
   equipment.
Starting Currents and Generator Sizing - Cross-line
starts (as opposed to soft starts) of equipment require higher
starting currents and therefore a larger generator. High
and premium-efficiency motors also require higher starting
currents and therefore a larger generator.
                                                                          Did you know?
                                                                          If your region is facing an extreme weather threat, FEMA
                                                                          will order and stage a "54-pack" of various sized generators
                                                                          in advance of a storm's arrival. After the storm strikes, the
                                                                          generators are shipped to selected locations depending on the
                                                                          states' needs and directions. This process may require several
                                                                          days.
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  Generators
Step 2 - Should I buy, rent or borrow a generator?
       Stepl
        Size
       Step 2
   Ownership
       StepS
    Fuel Type
       Step 4
  Connection
       Step5
   Placement
       Step 6
 Maintenance
•  Many private vendors sell or rent generators.  If you plan to rent a generator, set up a contract with a vendor.  Since
   many people may need to rent generators during a power outage, know where you stand in terms of priority with
   your generator vendor.

•  Another option is to reserve a portable generator from a rental pool during storm season.

•  Join your state's Water and Wastewater Agency Response  Network (WARN) to make it easier to borrow a generator
   and other resources during a regional emergency.

•  Investigate what your state water sector associations and local emergency management agencies can offer to help.
   In Florida, both the Florida Rural Water Association and the Florida Division of Emergency Management maintain
   generator pools for distribution as needed. A good working relationship with your local emergency manager will be
   critical to accessing state or federally provided generators.

•  Know what "type" of generator you need. You can learn more about resource typing from AWWA's Resource Typing
   Manual.
                       Generator
                       On-site (purchased)
                               You know you have one
                               Reduced time to respond
    Could be costly
    You perform the maintenance
    The disaster that strikes your utility
    could also damage your generator
                       Off-site (rented or borrowed)
                            •  Multiple sources to get one - EOC, WARN,
                               vendor
                            •  Someone else performs the maintenance
                            •  Costs less than buying
    Travel delays to get it to your site
    Your utility might not be high on the
    priority list to get a generator
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  Generators
Step 3 - What type of fuel should I  use to run  my generator?
       Stepl
        Size
       Step 2
   Ownership
       StepS
    Fuel Type
       Step 4
  Connection
In addition to portability, fuel type is an important consideration for selecting a generator.

•  Diesel generators are the most common and offer the largest selection, availability, and power range.

•  Smaller utilities with lower power requirements and fewer resources might consider portable, gasoline powered
   generators.

•  Smaller utilities can rotate several portable, gasoline generators between lift and pump stations as necessary. This
   method allows a utility to have backup power without buying a dedicated generator for each site.

•  You could also consider bi-fuel generators to increase your fuel options during an emergency. These generators can
   switch between two different fuel types, such as natural gas and diesel. Usually this choice is automated and dictated
   by what fuel type is more efficient for the given conditions and needs,  but the choice  can also be made manually
   based on what fuel type is available. For example, if natural gas lines are broken or shut off during a disaster, diesel
   can be  used.
       Step5
   Placement
       Step 6
 Maintenance
                                                              Useful Tip:
                                                              If using multiple generators, try to select
                                                              generators from the same manufacturer to make
                                                              servicing the units easier.
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  Generators
Step 3 - What type of fuel should  I use to run my generator?
       Stepl
        Size
       Step 2
   Ownership
                       Fuel Type
                       Diesel
                      Powers large generators
                      Lasts longer than gasoline
                      Readily available
•  Requires deliveries
•  Requires on-site storage
•  Risk of spills
       StepS
    Fuel Type
       Step 4
  Connection
       Step5
   Placement
                       Natural Gas
                       Propane
                      Does not require truck delivery
                      Does not require on-site storage
                      Does not expire
                      Supply is relatively inexhaustible
   Generator cost may be more expensive than a
   diesel version
   If natural gas service is interrupted, there are
   limited back-up options
   Risk of explosion
                  •   Does not expire
                  •   Easily available in rural areas
•  Requires deliveries
•  Requires on-site storage
•  Leased storage tanks limit fuel provider choice
•  Risk of explosion
       Step 6
 Maintenance
                       Gasoline
                      Powers smaller, portable generators
                      Readily available
•  Typical shelf life is 2-3 months or less if stored in
   the equipment
•  Requires deliveries
•  Requires on-site storage
•  Risk of spills
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  Generators
Step 4 - How will I  connect a generator to my assets?
      Stepl
        Size
      Step 2
  Ownership
      StepS
   Fuel Type
      Step 4
  Connection
      Step5
   Placement
Generators require a special connection to
rapidly hook to your facility's equipment without
accidentally back-feeding into electric lines, risking
electrocution of line workers.

•  Transfer switches allow you to easily switch
   back and forth between commercial and on-site
   generator power sources. These switches can
   be manual or automatic.

•  You can install transfer switches ahead of time
   to decrease the time needed to connect a
   generator during an emergency.

•  Install generator hook-ups at eye level to  make
   them easier to connect in an emergency under
   poor weather and lighting conditions.
      Step 6
 Maintenance
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  Generators
Step 5 - Where will I  keep a generator?
       Stepl
        Size
       Step 2
   Ownership
       StepS
    Fuel Type
       Step 4
  Connection
       Step5
   Placement
Make sure you keep your generator at a secure location.  Some tips include:

•  Locate generators and their fuel tanks above flood levels.  A common
   height requirement for critical infrastructure is 3 feet above the 100 year
   floodplain. Check your local and state requirements.

•  You can also consider installing a cement pad to provide a stable surface
   for a portable generator during an outage.

•  Use weatherproof enclosures to protect generators.

•  Get an enclosure large enough to provide easy access to the generator's
   radiator, fuel tanks, air and oil filters, and charging system.
                                                                                                          Video: Generator Placement
•  Cover a generator with a roof to increase its life expectancy. Or position the generator pad so that a roof can be
   added  later.

•  Maintain three or four feet of clear space on all sides of the generator for adequate ventilation.

•  Buy or rent a generator  built with acoustical steel and sound insulation if it will be located in a residential area.
       Step 6
 Maintenance
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  Generators
       Stepl
        Size
       Step 2
   Ownership
       StepS
    Fuel Type
       Step 4
  Connection
       Step5
   Placement
       Step 6
 Maintenance
Case Study:

In southern Monmouth County, New Jersey, a wastewater pumping station was redesigned to utilize a mobile trailer
to house the pumping station's expensive primary electric equipment and controls. This way, the trailer can be moved
out of danger during floods. Cables and plugs provide the connection between the pump station and the electric
and control equipment in the trailer.  When a storm threatens, the utility removes the trailer and mounts a cheaper
secondary electric and control system at the site. The secondary system then powers and operates the pump station
on either grid or generator power until after the storm, when the trailer can be safely returned to the pumping station.
A mobile enclosure may seem costly, but it saved the South Monmouth Regional Sewerage Authority an estimated
$1.5 million in repair and recovery monies after Hurricanes Irene and Sandy.
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  Generators
Step 6 - How Should  I Maintain a Generator?
      Stepl
        Size
      Step 2
  Ownership
      StepS
    Fuel Type
      Step 4
  Connection
      Step5
   Placement
If generators are not maintained, they will not function properly during emergencies. This could leave your utility without
backup power when you need it the most. Maintenance requirements for generators vary, so be sure to have a contractor
or trained utility staff perform scheduled maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer.

Generator Operation and Maintenance Tips

•  Regularly run generators under required load for extended periods to test for any problems.

•  Test the generator under load each time after it is serviced.

•  Perform additional maintenance on a generator if it could be used for 10 days or longer.

•  Record all maintenance activities to assess performance and operating costs and inform future buying decisions.

•  When you change the oil in your generator, consider sending a sample to be tested for the presence of metals. Metals
   could indicate engine wear, which may indicate that other repairs are needed.
      Step 6
 Maintenance
                                                                Did yOU know? During Hurricane Sandy,
                                                                many generators failed after 24 to 48 hours
                                                                because they had not been properly exercised
                                                                and maintained.
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  Generators
Generator Use Tips
       Stepl
        Size
       Step 2
   Ownership
       StepS
    Fuel Type
       Step 4
  Connection
       Step5
   Placement
       Step 6
 Maintenance
Your utility can take basic actions to prepare for disasters that may include power loss.  Below are tips for utilities using
generators in emergency situations.

D For large scale "notice" incidents, such as category 3 and above hurricanes, go off the grid and use your generators in
   anticipation of a power outage. This can prevent operational disruptions and protect electric equipment.

D Go off the grid and switch to generators if there is poor power quality.  Power fluctuations can damage equipment.

D Identify three-phase requirements. When power is restored, not all three phases may be available, which can damage
   three-phase equipment.

D Determine the need for protection against equipment failure caused by undervoltage or overvoltage.

D Conduct a facility-specific generator needs assessment.  This can significantly reduce response time during an
   emergency.

D Give completed assessment forms to your local EOC or emergency management agency.

D Keep smaller generators on trailers for emergencies. The generators can be safeguarded during the incident, but
   easily transported to sites without power when needed.

D Keep basic maintenance supplies on hand (e.g., coolant, belts, oil, fuel filters) to quickly get a generator back in service
   if there is a breakdown.

D Plan for a "backup" to your backup power. One option is to reserve a portable generator from a rental  pool during
   storm season.

D Conduct manual operation drills in case your SCADA system goes down during both a power and/or generator outage.
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                      4.  Fuel
                      TOP TIP:  Have multiple ways to get and move fuel during an emergency.
                      You must maintain fuel on-site and have multiple ways to obtain additional
                      fuel from vendors during emergencies. It may be difficult or impossible to get
                      fuel from outside sources to keep your generators operating for an extended
                      period of time. Your fuel suppliers may stop their operations due to the
                      power loss, transportation difficulties, or other damage. If you lease propane
                      fuel tanks, the supplier from whom you leased them is typically the only one
                      who can fill them.

                      To keep your generators running during an emergency, you should develop a
                      fuel plan that addresses:

                      •  How much fuel you need to operate each of your generators for one day

                      •  How many days you want to run your generators without refueling

                      •  Total on-site fuel capacity

                      •  How you will re-fuel your generators, including those in remote  locations

                      •  Contracts with multiple fuel vendors

                      •  Multiple options to move fuel during an emergency
                                                                                                       Video: Fuel
                                                                                 Fuel Tank Sizing -  YOU do not
                                                                                 want to run out of fuel during
                                                                                 a power outage. One utility
                                                                                 manager recommends storing
                                                                                 sufficient fuel to run a generator
                                                                                 at 70% load for five days.
                                                                                 Typically, having this amount of
                                                                                 fuel on hand enables this utility
                                                                                 to run a generator for seven to
                                                                                 nine days without running out
                                                                                 of fuel.
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                       Tips
                       D  Check fuel storage requirements because regulations vary from state to state.

                       D  Add fuel management into your generator maintenance schedule to ensure
                          availability of clean, reliable fuel.

                       D  Clean all fuel tanks at least every five years to avoid sludge build up.

                       D  Use gel and fuel additives to reduce biological activity that produces fuel sludge.

                       D  Use a portable fuel polishing unit.

                       D  Refill fuel tanks before they are empty to avoid drawing up any fuel sludge
                          accumulation.

                       D  Have multiple vendors from different regions under contract so that you can
                          maintain supplies if one vendor cannot deliver.

                       D  Ask your vendor to store additional fuel for your utility during storm months.

                       D  Be aware of limits on who can refuel leased fuel storage tanks. You can purchase
                          your own tanks if necessary.

                       D  Have filters (at least one complete filter set per generator) on hand because they
                          will not be readily available during an emergency.

                       D  Have a 1,000-gallon tank available and a truck on-site  for local deliveries.

                       D  Be prepared to move your own fuel without contractors. Trucks with mounted
                          100-gallon fuel tanks do not need HazMat placards. Generally, any tank over 119
                          gallons requires hazardous materials placarding and licensing.

                       D  Reduce your energy consumption while using generators to make the most of the
                          available fuel.
                                                                                        Case Study:

                                                                                        In 2012, the New Brunswick
                                                                                        Water Utility in New Jersey
                                                                                        was able to stay operational
                                                                                        for an additional six days
                                                                                        during Superstorm Sandy
                                                                                        by reducing generator fuel
                                                                                        consumption. Thinking
                                                                                        creatively, the operators
                                                                                        put the entire plant on
                                                                                        gravity filters, shutting down
                                                                                        the energy consumptive
                                                                                        membrane filters. This
                                                                                        operational change
                                                                                        successfully reduced
                                                                                        fuel consumption by
                                                                                        approximately two-thirds
                                                                                        (from 120,000 gal/day to
                                                                                        40,000 gal/day).
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Energy Efficiency
5.   Energy Efficiency
                          TOP TIP: Install energy efficient equipment to reduce energy needs and increase power resilience.
                          Energy efficiency will help your utility save on annual electric bills and increase your resilience during power outages. If
                          you decrease your energy use, you can run your generators longer with less fuel. For more information regarding energy
                          efficiency for water utilities, see EPA's Ensuring A Sustainable Future: An Energy Management Guidebook for Wastewater
                          and Water Utilities.

                          You can also conduct an energy assessment at your drinking water or wastewater utility using the ENERGY STAR Portfolio
                          Managerฎ. Following this initial assessment, you can conduct a more detailed audit to determine what energy efficiency
                          projects would be most beneficial for your utility. Many electric power providers will conduct an energy efficiency audit
                          to help you reduce your energy needs. Your municipal or local government may be willing to help pay for a portion of the
                          audit's costs.
                           Case Study:

                           Stockbridge Water in Massachusetts spent nearly one-
                           third of its budget on electric costs and decided to look for
                           ways to increase energy efficiency.  The utility was able to
                           reduce energy use by changing all lighting to electronic
                           ballast lighting.  In addition, by changing to heat pumps
                           (keeping the older electric heat system as a backup), the
                           utility saved 60-65% in annual electric costs.
                                                              source of information on incentives and policies that
                                                              support renewable energy and energy efficiency in
                                                              the United States. Funded by the U.S. Department
                                                              of Energy, DSIRE finds programs and resources that
                                                              can help you attain your energy goals.
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On-Site Power
                       6.  On-Site Power
    Microgrid
                       TOP TIP:  Generate power on-site to allow your utility to function during grid outages.
                       Another option to prevent power outages at your utility is to consider installing on-site power, known as distributed
                       energy resources (DER). DER refers to self-sufficient power generation, power storage, and electric load control
                       technologies that are located on-site at your utility and operated for your benefit. DER options include:

                       •     Microturbines - wind mills

                       •     Fuel cells - devices that convert the energy from a fuel into electricity through a chemical reaction

                       •     Photovoltaic systems - solar panels

                       •     Traditional internal combustion engines - engines that burn fuel to produce power, such as generators

                       •     Combined Heat and Power (CHP) - simultaneous generation  of electricity and heat from a source such as biogas.
                                                                      Combined Heat and Power for Wastewater Utilities
                                                                      CHP is the most applicable source of DER or on-site power
                                                                      generation for wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). CHP is the
                                                                      simultaneous production of electricity and heat from a single fuel
                                                                      source (e.g., natural gas, biogas, or coming led gas), and can be
                                                                      75% efficient. There is significant opportunity for CHP technology
                                                                      at WWTPs with anaerobic digesters, which produce biogas as a
                                                                      waste product. Benefits of CHP at a WWTP using biogas include
                                                                      energy cost savings, government and utility incentives, emissions
                                                                      reductions and enhanced reliability.
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On-Site Power
Microgrid
    Microgrid
A central concept to DER is the microgrid, an interconnected network of DER that can function separately from the
electric grid, enhancing your utility's power resilience. During a power outage, you could switch to your own electric
microgrid powered by a source such as solar panels and wind turbines. In the community, microgrids are often used to
link critical public services and critical private businesses together in their own, larger microgrid. These key facilities could
become "islands" of power during an outage.

DER and microgrids are emerging technologies, so be sure to talk to your electric utility before investing in these options.
EPA has information about on-site power generation in On-Site Renewable Energy Generation.
                       Three Massachusetts DER Examples:
                       1.  At the Greenfield Wastewater Treatment Plant, heat pumps that run off
                          plant effluent also heat the disinfection and pump buildings, with electric
                          heat used only as a backup.
                       2.  The Greater Lawrence Sanitary District plans to accept up to 92,000
                          gallons of pre-processed food waste per day, or approximately 28% of
                          the state's anticipated diverted food waste from landfills and incineration
                          as part of a CHP Project. The food waste will be used as a feedstock for
                          their digestion system and will produce biogas sufficient to fuel a 3 MW
                          cogeneration engine.
                       3.  The City of Northampton is using grant funds received through the
                          state's energy department to upgrade its fire headquarters. The city will
                          be installing a photovoltaic (PV) solar array so that the fire headquarters
                          may generate its own power on-site when grid power is out.
                                                                               One Use for On-Site Power
                                                                               As you consider the benefits of
                                                                               various types of DER at your
                                                                               utility,  think about using solar
                                                                               or wind power for telemetry
                                                                               systems.  Then your source
                                                                               of information about remote
                                                                               facilities would be independent
                                                                               from grid power.
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         Funding
7.  Funding
Federal Resources
  Sample Projects
                           TOP TIP: Use EPA's Fed FUNDS website to determine your eligibility for funding power resilience projects.
Power resilience may require an investment from your utility. This investment can reduce recovery costs and help to
maintain operations during disasters. Utilities can implement some power resilience measures using internal funding.
Other efforts may require capital investment through the utility's capital improvement plan and local government funding.
Also, there is some external funding from state and federal agencies that is available to utilities depending on the type
of utility and the measures that you are trying to fund. Examples of power resilience projects that have been funded
successfully through external sources include:

•      Purchase, rental, or upgrade of emergency generators and fuel supply facilities

•      Electric connections (transfer switches) to receive emergency generators

•      Elevation or protection of electric panels and generators from hazards

•      Flood protection around an electric substation and transformers

•      Purchase or subsidized  costs of microgrid technology

•      Energy efficiency measures
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         Funding
                          Federal Resources
Federal Resources
  Sample Projects
EPA's tool Federal Funding for Utilities- Water/Waste water- in National Disasters (Fed FUNDS) provides comprehensive
information on funding programs from various federal agencies including FEMA, EPA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Small Business Administration (SBA). For
example, the state administered Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) and Clean Water SRF support a wide range
of infrastructure projects. Eligible projects could include resilience components such as energy efficient upgrades and
alternative power sources. States establish priorities for using SRF funds and assistance is typically in the form of low-
interest loans.  To access Fed FUNDS, click the icon below.
                            Use Pre-Disaster
                                      Use During a Disaster
                             •
                               te, **1.
          Which Funding Is
          Right for You?
                                    Be Prepared to Tap
                                    into Funding
                                                                    Currently in a Disaster?
                                          Here are forms to document
                                         the damage, costs, and repairs.
    Use Pre- or Post-Disaster
           1 Federal Disaster
            Funding Programs
            Utility Examples,
            Training, & Assistance
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         Funding
Sample Projects
Federal Resources
  Sample Projects
To assist you in locating potential funding sources, the table below has been completed based on a broad interpretation
of funding eligibility and policy.  Individual utility projects will need evaluation on a case-by-case basis.  Talk to your utility
supervisor, local emergency manager, town manager, and state hazard mitigation officer to determine the availability of
funding opportunities for your power resilience project.
Possible Funding Sources
Sample Power Resilience Project 	 1 	 1 	 1 	 1
EPASRF FEMAPA FEMAHMG HUD CDBG
Repair generator or fuel tank
Elevate existing generators, electric equipment etc. X
Purchase generators and fuel storage X
Install electric wiring hookups (e.g., transfer switches)
to accept generators
Develop and implement emergency power plan
Harden grid link or multiple independent feeds
Replace damaged equipment with energy efficient
versions
Add power (e.g., dual fuel, cogeneration, solar, wind)
X
X
X
x
X
X
X




X
X

X
X
X
X
X

X


X



x

USDA WEP
y
X
X
X
X
X
x
X
                           Table Key: SRF = State Revolving Fund; PA = Public Assistance; HMG = Hazard Mitigation Grant; CDBG = Community Development
                           Block Grant; WEP = Water and Environmental Programs
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Office of Water {4608T)                                             EPA 800-R-15-004                                                   December 2015

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