Data is required to perform the calculations, the extent
of which is determined by the objectives of the study
and the availability of which significantly influences the
accuracy. Improved data availability in this area of industry
is an evident requirement, which is being addressed. The
methodology proposed and hence the data requirements may
be applied to the critical water systems only if required.
Whilst it is agreed that it is difficult to apply economic
principles to water which is not being metred, it is also not
possible when the true cost is unknown. If a value system
is developed following the methodology proposed, then the
true cost of each of the water systems is made transparent,
a situation which is not currently in existence. Ultimately,
once complete, the information generated presents a
representative quantification of the true cost of water and is
extremely beneficial.
Along with providing a particularly useful insight into the
operation of the facility, which may be used for benchmarking
and internal cost control, it also provides the data necessary
to enable the financial justification of any changes required.
An application of this would be the determination of the
true cost of the DI water used in the manufacturing factory
described in Section 5. Once known, the cost of utilisation of
this utility can be monitored and controlled. Modifications to
the operational practices along with the systems involved in
the generation, utilisation and disposal of the DI water can
then be financially quantified and justified. The data may also
be used as a component for the determination of a water
footprint or a life-cycle cost for the factory or even a particular
product.
If the proposed methodology is implemented, changes will
be possible and will result in water, energy and cost savings
along with environmental benefits.