Edmonton, AB – Epcor has confirmed that the mandatory ban on non-essential water use in the Edmonton region will persist until Sunday at noon due to pump malfunctions at the E.L.
Smith Water Treatment Plant. The incident, occurring at 2:00 a.m. on Monday, resulted in an electrical system failure powering four 4,000-horsepower water distribution pumps.
Craig Bonneville, Epcor’s Director of Engineering and Technical Services, stated that intensive efforts are underway to replace the cables, with a targeted complete restoration by the upcoming Sunday.
Even after the full restoration of the facility, additional days will be required to replenish reservoirs and stabilize the distribution network, maintaining the ban on non-essential water use until operational capacities are restored.
While two smaller pumps are back in operation, work on the two larger pumps remains unresolved, necessitating further plant shutdowns. Bonneville emphasized the critical need for water conservation during this period.
Epcor has proactively contacted over 300 businesses with excessive water consumption, requesting reductions or eliminations.
Residents of Edmonton and surrounding areas, including Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Stony Plain, Spruce Grove, Leduc, Beaumont, and Fort Saskatchewan, have also been urged to reduce their consumption of non-essential water.
The ban is expected to remain in effect until Sunday, February 4, with Epcor closely monitoring compliance. Non-compliant businesses could potentially face water service interruptions by an Edmonton bylaw.
Despite the reduction in daily water consumption from 370 million liters to 340 million liters, Epcor appreciates the favorable reception from both residents and businesses.
While the organization does not anticipate additional requests for reductions, it stresses the importance of sustaining ongoing conservation initiatives.
Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi urged citizens to continue reducing discretionary water consumption and expressed confidence in Epcor’s response. Epcor is actively communicating with the province and municipality to resolve the situation without issuing emergency orders.
Residents are encouraged to postpone laundry, hand-wash small portions of dishes, take brief showers and refrain from overflowing hot tubs, pools, or outdoor rinks. Water conservation measures have been implemented in recreation and leisure facilities by the City of Edmonton.
Epcor has initiated maintenance at the 48-year-old E.L. Smith Water Treatment Plant, focusing on repairing the electrical feed system supplying power to the water distribution pumps. This situation underscores the critical need for proactive water demand management and public collaboration in the face of unforeseen incidents affecting critical services.
Stay informed as Epcor diligently works towards a complete resolution, ensuring stability in the water supply for Edmonton and neighboring communities.
