What are "non-revenue water" losses?

"Non-revenue water" losses refer specifically to water that is produced but not billed to customers. This term encompasses several scenarios, including water that is used but not paid for due to factors such as leaks in the distribution system, unauthorized consumption, or metering inaccuracies. Essentially, it represents any water that a utility generates but fails to collect revenue from, leading to financial losses.

Understanding non-revenue water is crucial for water utilities to improve efficiency and sustainability. By identifying and reducing these losses, utilities can enhance their operational performance, better manage resources, and ultimately provide services at a lower cost. This concept emphasizes the need for proper monitoring and maintenance of infrastructure to minimize waste and ensure that the water supplied has a corresponding revenue stream.