Melissa Matlock, CalWEP Director of Programs
As we approach the January 1, 2025, deadline for the Urban Water Use Objective (UWUO) Report, CalWEP is here to ensure you have the tools and resources to streamline your reporting process. This is a new reporting process, so CalWEP developed a few resources to help our members wrap their heads around all the moving pieces - and find support. One of the first things you'll need to do is go through the reporting form and check to ensure the pre-populated data that is pulled from various other state reports is accurate. See the flow chart below!
2025 Reporting 101
The UWUO is based on the supplier’s water use conditions for the previous state fiscal year. Here are the key reporting requirements to keep in mind as you prepare your submission:
- Disclosable Building Identification:
Due January 1, 2025 - You'll need to identify Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional (CII) disclosable buildings in your service area. This includes cross-referencing the California Energy Commission’s list. CalWEP and CaDC have done this for all the agencies statewide. Check out our Disclosable Buildings Toolkit! - Indoor Residential Water Use:
The indoor residential water use standard is 47 gallons per capita per day (GPCD). - Outdoor Residential Water Use:
The landscape efficiency factors (LEF) for existing landscapes is 0.80, Special Landscape Areas (SLA) is 1.0, and new landscapes are 0.55. - CII-DIM Budgets:
CII Dedicated Irrigation Meter (DIM) budget should match actual deliveries as reported in your agency's eAR. - Water Loss Audit:
Real water loss reporting is required, though compliance does not begin until 2028.
While overall compliance for the Making Conservation a Way of Life regulation begins in 2027, the first step is reporting your data accurately by January 1, 2025.
CalWEP’s Data Flow Chart: Simplifying the Process
To assist with this complex process, CalWEP developed this Data Flow Chart to help you identify what data is required and where it comes from. This visual tool is designed to streamline updates, enhance internal coordination, and provide a clear overview of how all the reporting components come together. By using this chart, your agency can navigate the UWUO reporting requirements more efficiently.
Additional Resources to Support You
- UWUO Reporting Contact List: This resource provides a directory of agency staff who can assist with the submission process, ensuring your questions reach the right people.
- UWUO Alternative Data Process: If your agency needs to submit alternative data or has unique reporting needs, CalWEP offers a guide to the alternative data approval process. This resource outlines how to meet data requirements if your agency uses non-standard methods or has unique conditions.
- Webinar on Reporting - November 20, 2024 - San Diego County Water Authority is hosting a free workshop focused on data reporting. There will be some hands-on practical examples.
- Reporting Office Hour at CalWEP's Winter Plenary on 12/12 in Sacramento: Join us early for an opportunity to drop in and meet with SWB staff at CalWEP's Winter Plenary. Bring any last minute questions before you submit your report!
Stay on Track
The Urban Water Use Objective Report is a critical step in aligning with California’s conservation goals. With these tools at your disposal, CalWEP is here to ensure your agency submits its report with confidence.
Let’s keep California on the path to efficient water use—together!
Questions?
Reach out to us at [email protected]