RP Darmstadt publishes current water balance 2024
The Darmstadt Regional Council has presented the current water balance for southern Hesse. According to this, the average daily water consumption per person has risen slightly.
Consumption rises to 121 liters per day
In 2024, per capita consumption was 121 liters per day – one liter more than the previous year. In the districts of southern Hesse, the average consumption was around 117 liters per person per day.
In independent cities such as Darmstadt, Frankfurt, Offenbach and Wiesbaden, the value was significantly higher at approximately 131 liters.
Higher values in cities can be explained
According to RP, the higher consumption in urban areas is due to the fact that commuters, students, and visitors are also included in the calculation. These individuals use water locally without being registered there.
Furthermore, statistical effects influence the development: The 2022 census resulted in some population figures being revised downwards, which mathematically leads to a higher per capita consumption. Therefore, an actual increase in consumption is not assumed.
Water losses and data basis
The water balance also takes losses in the distribution networks into account. These vary depending on the size and structure of the networks as well as the type of water supply. In addition to technical losses, so-called "inauthentic" losses are also included, for example, those caused by network flushing or fire department operations.
The data is based on information provided by municipalities and utility associations. Its accuracy may vary, as some estimates are used.
Water supply remains a municipal responsibility
Ensuring the water supply is the responsibility of local authorities. This includes minimizing water losses and securing the supply in the long term.
(DARMSTADT – RED/RPDA)
