As we talk with architects, engineers and developers about gray water recycling, one question comes up again and again: how long does it take for these systems to pay for themselves? When that happens, we give our standard answer: there is no standard answer.
Since payback periods vary depending on freshwater expenses, wastewater treatment fees, usage and other factors, it’s difficult for us to give an accurate, catch-all answer regarding payback periods. However, the following case study is a good example of a return on investment for one commercial gray water system.
In September 2007, Corrections Corporation of America (CCA) decided to add gray water recycling to one of their new correctional facilities in Natchez, Mississippi. As the nation’s largest owner and operator of privatized correctional facilities, CCA wanted to reduce their high water consumption and sought Brac Systems for help.
Brac accepted the challenge and developed the CGW Series, not just for prisons but for the entire commercial market. Ultimately, CCA needed 15 CGW-6600s to provide enough recycled gray water for more than 1,500 inmates.
Without disclosing the exact costs and usage amounts, Budea Johns, CCA’s Senior Director of Project Development, said that it would take 42 months to realize a return on investment. If the system had been retrofitted, the return would have been around 52 months.
Thanks, CCA. That helps make things black and white.
