France's water surveillance system: VigiEau
In the heart of summer 2023, the prefect of the Balearic Islands reported a severe water shortage in the central part of Mallorca. The situation was classified as precarious, and some municipalities were considered for emergency zones to ensure water supply via tanker trucks. Strict water use restrictions were imposed, both for public and private sectors, in this alert phase.
Meanwhile, back in winter 2022, two applications, VigiEau and EcoWatt, were instrumental in keeping French citizens informed. These tools provided alert levels regarding water and electricity distribution.
VigiEau, launched by the Minister of Ecological Transition on July 11, 2023, is a year-round platform designed to help citizens manage water usage in response to drought conditions. It informs users about water restrictions in their territory and provides advice and recommendations for responsible water use. The platform may prohibit actions like filling a pool or washing a car, with failure to comply resulting in a fine of up to 15,000€.
On the other hand, EcoWatt was a winter-specific tool, used for monitoring electricity distribution alerts. Much like VigiEau, citizens could enter their address to stay informed about the alert level and corresponding prohibitions. EcoWatt was utilised for informing French citizens about electricity distribution alerts during the winter of 2022.
Interestingly, the functionality of these two applications is quite similar. They both enable more informed decision-making regarding water and electricity consumption, and they provide users with alert levels to help them navigate potential crises. The VigiEau solution is even integrated into the information provided by the Météo France application.
In summary, VigiEau and EcoWatt are valuable resources for French citizens, helping them manage water and electricity consumption during times of scarcity. Whether it's a drought in the summer or a cold winter, these platforms offer practical, user-friendly solutions to help citizens make informed choices about their water and electricity use.
