NITO report: The water and wastewater sector in Norway
The report from NITO provides a comprehensive overview of the water and wastewater sector in Norway, with a focus on critical challenges such as high leakage rates and skills shortages. It describes the status of the industry and suggests concrete measures for improvement.
Challenges in the water and wastewater sector
The water and sewage system is essential for the functioning of society, but struggles with a high leakage rate. Although the national target was to reduce the leakage rate to below 25 per cent by 2020, it has remained stable above 30 per cent. This entails both health risks and a waste of resources. Additionally, the renewal rate is low, which increases the lag and can lead to higher fees.
Skills shortage in the water and wastewater sector
There is a significant shortage of engineering skills in the sector, especially in small municipalities. This hinders the effective renewal and modernisation of the pipeline network. The report highlights the importance of broader engineering expertise – including IT, automation and chemical engineering – to meet the demands and challenges of the future.
NITO report: The water and wastewater sector in Norway
NITO's proposal for measures to strengthen the water and wastewater sector
- More engineering and water and wastewater engineering study places
- Assessment of the self-cost principle as a financing model
- Larger units to take advantage of economies of scale
- Opportunities and incentives to stay in work longer
- Increased government responsibility and financial support for upgrades
