When the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) passed the Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule, which stated that surface water had to go through a filtration process, North Tahoe Public Utilities District (PUD) chose to install an ultraviolet (UV) treatment system for disinfecting its fresh-water supply. In designing the UV plant, North Tahoe PUD was mindful of the opportunities for water and energy efficiency. The utility also launched a public outreach effort to promote water conservation. North Tahoe PUD distributed literature published by American Water Works Association and provided tours/ field trips of its facility to elementary school students during Water Awareness Week in the spring.

The goal of this project was to provide a safe fresh-water supply in an efficient manner.

The UV disinfection plant was estimated to save $6,700/ year in power costs. The Leak Detection Program saved 819.6 GPM and $430,781,760.