Jacobs is partnering with Uisce Éireann (formerly Irish Water) to enhance Ireland's water services through the Water Services Strategic Plan (WSSP) 2050. This collaboration aims to deliver high-quality, sustainable, and resilient water services across the nation.
Uisce Éireann, Ireland's national public water utility, oversees the operation and capital investment for all public water and wastewater services in the country. The utility supplies 449 million gallons (1.7 billion liters) of drinking water and treats over 317 million gallons (1.2 billion liters) of wastewater daily.
The draft WSSP 2050 outlines Uisce Éireann's strategic objectives, goals, and actions to tackle the key challenges in delivering water services up to 2050. It emphasizes long-term planning to address emerging trends and uncertainties. As the highest tier of Uisce Éireann's management plans, the WSSP provides a comprehensive framework for detailed implementation plans and water service projects. The project is part of the Multi Supplier Framework for Engineering Design Services and is expected to last about two years.
As the highest tier of Uisce Éireann's management plans, the WSSP provides a comprehensive framework for detailed implementation plans and water service projects
"As the impact of climate change puts growing pressure on the availability and resilience of national water resources, there is an increasing need for long-term planning and an adoption of a whole system approach," said Jacobs Senior Vice President Kate Kenny. "Jacobs' experience in working on a range of strategic plans with water utility companies all over the world puts us in a strong position to support Uisce Éireann in preparing for future uncertainties and capitalizing on emerging trends."
Uisce Éireann Chief Technical Advisor John Casey said: "We operate in a rapidly changing global environment that will bring enormous challenges for the delivery of water services including climate change, population and economic growth, environmental and biodiversity crisis, legislation, regulation and policy changes, economic conditions and aging infrastructure. Through the delivery of our draft WSSP 2050, we will build on the legacy of our local authority water services heritage, working with our customers, communities and stakeholders to enhance our shared environment and support social and economic development. We aim to lead by example and embrace research and innovation, integrating new technologies and sustainable practices to secure a safe and reliable water supply into the future while protecting the environment.
"We are now inviting all our stakeholders and members of the public to have their say in relation to how these essential services are managed and delivered, for the benefit of customers and communities throughout Ireland," he added.
The public is invited to participate in a consultation running until July 16, 2024, to provide input on the draft WSSP 2050. More information can be found in the draft Water Services Strategic Plan 2050 Consultation information leaflet.
