Water Supply Planning & Demand Management

Our insights guide water supply planning, informing solutions that balance nature, people, and the economy.

Economic insights for Strategic Water Supply Planning

Skills & Services

Economic Impact Analysis Triple Bottom Line Analysis

One Water Econ supports utilities and agencies in making informed, cost-effective decisions about water supply and conservation. We apply a range of economic analysis methods to support utility planning—from evaluating supply alternatives and conservation program performance to projecting future demand and building the business case for water reuse. By quantifying the costs and benefits of current and emerging options, we help clients compare scenarios, understand demand dynamics, and design incentives and policies that promote sustainable, climate-resilient water management.


  • Benefit-Cost Analysis of Water Supply Alternatives

    One Water Econ brings specialized expertise in benefit-cost analysis to support strategic water supply planning. We evaluate alternatives—including conservation, reuse, desalination, and new sources—by quantifying both direct costs and broader community benefits. Our analysis helps utilities compare scenarios on equal footing, identify high-value investments, and align supply decisions with long-term resilience, affordability, and sustainability goals.

  • Demand Management & Forecasting

    One Water Econ performs rigorous economic modeling to evaluate the various factors that affect water use across customer types. We use these models to forecast future demands, inform water supply planning and rate design, and evaluate conservation program effectiveness.  We quantify the benefits and costs of conservation strategies and incentives, helping water suppliers integrate conservation and demand management strategies into their overall water supply portfolio.

  • Value of Water Supply Reliability

    One Water Econ values water supply reliability by assessing the economic and social impacts of shortages, service disruptions, and drought-related constraints. We quantify costs associated with reduced availability—such as landscape loss, business interruptions, and emergency response—and analyze customer preferences for outdoor watering, conservation behaviors, and service expectations. We help utilities understand how reliability affects customer satisfaction, willingness to pay, and long-term planning.These insights support investment decisions that reflect both system performance and community priorities.

Projects of Note

  • Economic Benefits of Investments in Water Infrastructure Projects in Salinas Valley, California

    One Water Econ quantified and monetized the benefits accrued to Salinas Valley stakeholders over a 51-year period from the construction and operation of its water infrastructure projects— Nacimiento and San Antonio Reservoirs, the Castroville Seawater Intrusion Project, and the Salinas Valley Water Project.

    Take a Look
  • Economic Benefits and Impacts of Cape Fear Public Utility Authority’s Infrastructure Investments

    One Water Econ, in partnership with Raftelis Financial Consultants, helped CFPUA demonstrate how its investments in water and wastewater infrastructure drive economic activity across the Wilmington metro area.

    Take a Look
  • Quantifying the Performance of Source Water Protection Measures to Improve Utilities’ Decision Making

    This project equips utilities with tools to quantify and monetize the full range of benefits and costs associated with source water protection (SWP).

    Take a Look
  • Evaluating the Impact of Denver Water’s Conservation Programs

    One Water Econ partnered with Denver Water to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of its conservation programs.

    Take a Look