Industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) businesses in the Capital Regional District (CRD) use over 11 billion litres of water per year. This is over a quarter (26%) of all water use in the Greater Victoria Area. Using water efficiently means lower water bills for you, delaying the need for new water systems, and reduces environmental impacts. Additionally, efficient hot water use reduces energy bills which lowers a building's greenhouse gas emissions.
Save Water and Money
Water efficiency makes good business sense. CRD water efficiency programs help eligible businesses and institutions use less water, save money, and protect the environment by providing rebates, free audits, technical services, and equipment.
These programs apply to businesses that are part of the Greater Victoria Water Supply, meaning they use water provided by the CRD from the Sooke Lake Reservoir.
Once-Through Cooling Systems: Regulation and Rebates
Once-through cooling (OTC), also known as single-pass cooling systems, wastes a lot of water and is costly to run.
Starting on July 1 2028, using water supplied by the CRD for OTC will not be allowed. Before this new rule starts, any eligible business can get up to $2,500 in rebates to replace OTC systems in equipment like air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers and ice machines.
Hand Wash Faucet Aerator Program
This is a free service to businesses and institutions using CRD water. CRD staff will check faucets on all hand wash sinks and if necessary, replace the aerator.
New low-flow aerators use less than two litres of water per minute, compared to 11 litres per minute on older faucets. This helps save water and money and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Sign up for free service or call us at 250.360.3103
Efficient Irrigation
Efficient irrigation reduces water waste and helps maintain a stable water supply. Regular system maintenance, proper scheduling, and choosing the right irrigation type can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and help protect the region’s water infrastructure.
Furthermore, businesses can help reduce demand on the CRD water system by adjusting automated irrigation schedules to run between 12:00 am and 4:00 am, avoiding peak demand hours (4:00-6:00 am).
Learn more about Efficient Irrigation
Fix a Leak
Leaks may seem small, but they can add up to significant water waste and higher utility bills. During Fix a Leak Week (March 17 - March 22), businesses have an opportunity to identify and repair leaks in their facilities, reducing costs and supporting long-term water efficiency. With rising water and wastewater service costs, efficient water management is more important than ever. The Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense partnership program provides resources to help facility managers, building owners, and businesses detect leaks, improve water efficiency, and lower operational expenses. Taking action now helps prevent future costs while ensuring a reliable water supply for the community.
WaterSense for Commercial Buildings
WaterSense Tools for Commercial and Institutional Facilities
Free Assessments and Technical Services
The CRD offers free water audits for the facilities of eligible businesses and institutions in the CRD. Water audits help determine how facilities use water and how efficient they are, identifying ways to conserve water and save money.
Contact Us
For more information, please contact us at 250.360.3103
Reports and Resources
CRD conducts research to support water efficiency programs. These resources enable residents and businesses to access the best advice from local and international experts in water efficiency and conservation.
