Aug. 11, 2021
POV: Achieving Water Equity: Assessing Water Access Beyond Affordability
August 11, 2021 Written by Robert F. Powelson, President & CEO of National Association of Water Companies With infrastructure taking the spotlight in Washington since January and COVID-19’s ongoing impact, there’s certainly been a renewed focus on the essential role water service plays in protecting public health — and rightfully so. At the same time, the pandemic’s economic impact and increased attention paid to equity has sharpened focus on ensuring customers can afford their water bills. To date, these dual realities– the need for investment and the desire to keep rates low – has created a false choice…
April 14, 2021
POV: Focus on Water Cybersecurity Now, Before It’s Too Late
April 14, 2021 Written by Robert F. Powelson, President & CEO of National Association of Water Companies Robert F. Powelson, President & CEO, National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) Oldsmar, Florida, made headlines earlier this year. A hacker gained access to the county utility’s water treatment control systems and dramatically raised the amount of certain chemicals in the drinking water to dangerous levels. Fortunately, the hacker’s attempt was foiled before the water supply was effectively poisoned. This alarming cyber breach speaks to a larger issue that is looming out there around overall cyber protection of our water grid. As…