Survey Indicates Increased Water Shortages Due to Heat in Local Supplies

Amidst rising temperatures and prolonged dry spells, local water suppliers in Germany are preparing for increased challenges in water provision. A recent survey conducted by the Association of Municipal Utilities (VKU) revealed that over 120 water providers anticipate a rise in supply shortages, with nearly half (45%) of the 127 surveyed companies reporting heightened demand during heatwaves.

In recent years, approximately 29% of respondents have already faced temporary shortages in their water supply. In 16% of these instances, facilities and distribution networks were pushed to their limits, while 13% reported insufficient water availability to meet the growing demand.

The VKU's findings suggest that two-thirds of the surveyed companies foresee a moderate (57%) to significant (18%) increase in supply shortages in the future. Regions with limited water resources or outdated infrastructure are particularly vulnerable to temporary shortages during summer months, with parts of Franconia and Brandenburg mentioned as examples of affected areas.

Karsten Specht, the VKU's vice president, acknowledged the capacity of municipal water management to handle these challenges but emphasized the increasing strain caused by climate change, which is likely to result in more frequent heatwaves and droughts. He stressed the necessity for adaptation to these changing conditions.

The survey also highlighted that around 25% of the water suppliers are facing regulatory constraints or usage limitations. Nearly half of these organizations are proactively reaching out to customers during extreme heat periods, urging them to conserve water.

The primary responsibility of municipal water companies is to ensure the supply of drinking water and effective wastewater management. The VKU represents a total of 754 water suppliers across the country.

To secure long-term water availability, the VKU is calling for greater political support. The surveyed companies have expressed a strong desire for prioritizing public water supply in situations where resource conflicts arise, a measure that is not yet enshrined in law.

Additionally, the association advocates for streamlined planning and approval processes to address the impacts of climate change, as well as the allocation of funding to support these initiatives. The VKU hopes to benefit from the federal government's 500 billion euro special fund aimed at infrastructure and climate neutrality, emphasizing that investments in water management should also be included.