APUA Water Business Unit Provides Update on Water Production and Distribution

ST JOHNS ANTIGUA, 13th January 2025 – The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) Water Business Unit wishes to inform customers of temporary reductions in water production, which have impacted distribution to several communities.

Currently, our average daily production is approximately 6 million imperial gallons (IG), falling short of the estimated daily demand of 9 million IG. This deficit is due to several factors, including mechanical and technical challenges, unfavourable sea conditions, infrastructural
disruptions, and the natural wear and tear of our Reverse Osmosis (R.O.) plants.

APUA is steadfast in its commitment to enhancing water production capacity by increasing surface and groundwater supplies through the exploration and inclusion of additional wells in its production network. Moreover, we have expanded our investment in reverse osmosis technology via strategic agreements with NS Management and The Seven Seas Water Group.

These initiatives are set to boost water production by an additional 5 million imperial gallons (IG) by the end of 2025, including 1 million IG from the Ffryes R.O. facility, scheduled for commissioning by January 2025. This enhanced capacity will meet the growing needs of communities in the southern region of the island and strengthen storage capabilities at the Grays Hill Reservoir, which serves the western and southwestern areas.

In the interim, APUA has established a strategic committee tasked with reviewing and implementing an improved distribution strategy to ensure equitable water delivery to areas currently experiencing challenges by Thursday 16th January 2025. APUA recognises the essential need for reliable water supply and assures all customers of ongoing efforts to address these issues.

APUA also urges customers to store at least 60 gallons of potable water per person to cover basic household needs for at least three days in the event of disruptions. Consumers are also reminded of the importance of practicing water conservation and recycling measures in homes
and businesses to prolong a limited and precious resource.

Furthermore, residents who use community standpipes are reminded to use them responsibly and only for their intended purpose of supporting residential water consumption. Any misuse, such as attaching hoses or tampering with the standpipes, is considered an offence and can
lead to contamination, presenting serious public health risks.

APUA deeply regrets any inconvenience caused and asks for your understanding and cooperation as we work to improve water production and distribution.