EPA has updated its Current Supply Chain Disruptions webpage with information on chlorine products, discussing issues impacting availability and price and providing recommendations utilities can take to respond to shortages and position themselves for the future.

EPA attributes the decrease in chlorine availability to the closure of manufacturing facilities and both planned activities and unexpected events. It notes this has led to extended lead times for purchases and reduced customer allocations and has left the market susceptible to regional shortages. EPA observes this situation is unlikely to change in the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the production capacity issues have driven up the price of chlorine. Prices have also been impacted by increases in energy and transportation costs and inflation. Water and wastewater systems are likely to see continued increases in the price of chlorine products, perhaps as frequently as on a quarterly basis, through the end of 2022, and potentially beyond, according to EPA. It lists a series of approaches to help utilities respond to current and future issues, which include establishing a contract with primary and alternate suppliers. EPA’s Current Supply Chain Disruptions webpage also provides information on disruptions resulting in force majeure notices, which currently includes one from a manufacturer regarding disruptions across its system. Access EPA’s Current Supply Chain Disruptions webpage.

To report supply chain issues to EPA, email SupplyChainSupport@epa.gov. WaterISAC also encourages members of the water and wastewater sector to share information on supply chain issues by emailing analyst@waterisac.org.