Water and power, gas and electric, are fundamental to our economy and our lives. Every consumer, big and small, wants the highest quality service from their utility providers at the lowest reasonable cost. But consumers also want their water, gas and electricity produced and delivered in an environmentally sustainable manner. If only there was a coordinated campaign to simultaneously promote consumer interests and environmental protection. Now there is.

United States Water and Power is designed to assist each local community in maximizing its potential to use water and energy resources more efficiently and more conservatively resulting in overall economic and environmental benefits. United States Water and Power (USWP) is also an advocate for sustainable water, gas and power technologies, policies and practices. The U.S. Water and Power brand represents efficiency and sustainability. For the consumer, who writes two or three checks every month for utility services, USWP is a one stop shop providing the latest local information regarding rebates and other ways that they can save water, save energy, save money and save the environment.

In a typical community the water utilities are public agencies while the gas and electric utilities are investor owned. Greater integration of water and power is called for in the public interest which requires greater cooperation between the public and private sectors. In the long term, a sustainable water and power campaign in each community can only succeed with leadership provided by local institutions and stakeholders. Each community, state or county may elect to develop its own sustainable water and power campaign by providing a formal structure such as nonprofit incorporation recognizing the value of public/private partnership or establishing a Joint Powers Authority with strong commitments from local public agencies. In any case, United States Water and Power is prepared to assist. The USWP initiative to launch the Illinois Water and Power website is only a beginning. Your comments and suggestions are important to this campaign but your participation and partnership is essential.