2021 Annual Report
Communication and Collaboration
Leading with Big Ideas to Improve Water Reliability
In October 2019, Water Authority General Manager Sandra L. Kerl delivered the opening remarks at the California-Nevada Section of the American Water Works Association annual fall conference. The theme of the conference was “Re/Source: Sustaining Life Through Diversity of Water.” The Water Authority has worked for three decades to increase San Diego County’s water supply reliability through supply diversification in a region with few natural water assets. Kerl described three of the “big ideas” the Water Authority is exploring to increase its water portfolio to sustain its economy and quality of life.
- A major pumped storage project at the San Vicente Reservoir to enhance clean energy for California
- A new water conveyance system for Colorado River supplies
- A storage account in Lake Mead that would allow the Water Authority to help the Colorado River Basin
One of the big ideas the Water Authority is exploring is a major pumped storage project at the San Vicente Reservoir that would provide
many regional benefits, including generating additional revenue to offset water agency costs and help stabilize water rates. The project
would also help balance the electric grid and enhance system reliability by storing energy.
“While we’re proud of the progress we have made, we know that we can’t stand still. Creating new sources of supply is critical, but sustainability is really about having a balanced water portfolio approach to ensure a safe, reliable supply.”
Sandra L. Kerl
General Manager
Water Authority
Water Authority