The Suffolk County Water Authority announced today that a record number of its customers are installing water saving devices. SCWA’s WaterWise credit program offers up to $250 to customers who purchase eligible devices that reduce water use. In the first five months of 2023, SCWA approved 644 WaterWise credits, more than double the previous high of 268 credits in 2022. The program was expanded in January when SCWA increased the credit amount from $50 to $250 as part of an effort to conserve water and protect Long Island’s aquifer for the future generations.
“This program has been a great success and that is a fantastic thing to see,” said SCWA Chairman Charles Lefkowitz, “We have experienced some serious droughts in the last few years and if we aren’t careful to preserve our aquifer, we could end up in a place we don’t want to be. I am encouraged to see our customers doing their part by installing these devices.”
In total, SCWA has approved 3,183 credits since the program began in 2016. Credits are offered for devices such smart controllers and rain sensors for automatic sprinkler systems, low flow shower heads and faucet aerators. When the program was expanded in January, the smart controller rebate tripled from $50 to $150 while several new items were added to the list of eligible devices such as rain barrels, pressure regulating devices and solar pool covers.
“All of these devices have the potential to substantially reduce the amount of water that a customer uses,” added Jeff Szabo, SCWA Chief Executive Officer. “It means real savings for our customers on their bills. If water conservation means we build one less well or one less storage tank without inhibiting our ability to meet peak demand, that could mean millions of dollars in savings that we all benefit from.”
Customers are encouraged to visit www.scwa.com/waterwise to find out more information on the program.
The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation operating under the authority of the Public Authorities Law of the State of New York. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, the Authority operates without taxing power on a not-for-profit basis.