Security of water supply – Responsibilities and overview of the laws in Germany

Abstract

Maintaining supply security both in normal operations and in emergencies and crises requires concrete frameworks, defined protection goals and efficient precautionary measures. At present, the responsibilities and scope of measures to safeguard water supply are not always clearly regulated in Germany and vary among state laws. There is a lack of legal basis for the implementation of measures to secure water supply beyond the defense case regulated by federal law. Risk analyses provide a good basis for implementing effective precautionary measures. Identification
of risks and derivation of investments to mitigate risks should be more integrated into legislation. Coordinated and enforceable regulations
for (piped) backup water supply in emergency and crisis situations support the responsible parties in their task of further hardening the public water supply and being prepared for emergency and crisis situations.