South West Water’s Water Efficiency Business Innovation Fund is now open for applications from businesses across the region that use water as part of their operations.
The scheme offers financial support to help businesses develop and implement innovative water-saving technologies and processes.
Carmen Snowdon, senior demand strategy manager at South West Water, said: “We’re always thinking about water conservation and we want to support all our customers to do the same.
“While our reservoirs are in a healthy position after a wet start to the year, climate change is showing us that we all need to be mindful of the water we use all-year around.
“The support on offer from our new Water Efficiency Business Innovation Fund will help businesses, who typically use a lot of water to feel empowered and supported with their water-saving projects.
“We can’t wait to see what kinds of ideas businesses come up with.”
Eligible applicants could include hairdressers, farms, cafes, and factories- essentially any company that relies on water for its operations.
South West Water is encouraging ideas such as using rainwater instead of mains water where appropriate, optimising washing processes, treating and reusing wastewater, or introducing technology to lower tap water consumption.
The fund can be used for equipment hire and purchase, building and installation materials, skills and training, and professional fees such as those for consultants or contractors.
Grants of up to £15,000 are available for larger projects.
The company is also tackling water waste in its own network by reducing leakage and helping customers find and repair leaks.
Customer-owned pipework is estimated to account for around 30 per cent of water loss in the region.
For more information on who is eligible and how to apply, visit the South West Water website.
