South West Water has launched its Water Efficiency Business Innovation Fund to support organisations across the region in developing practical water-saving solutions that reduce mains water demand and improve long-term resilience.
The new Water Efficiency Business Innovation Fund is open to any business that uses water as part of its operations, including hospitality venues, agricultural enterprises, manufacturers, food and beverage processors, laundries and service-sector organisations.
The initiative forms part of the company’s broader strategy to manage demand, strengthen regional water resilience and respond to the increasing pressures of climate change.
How the Water Efficiency Business Innovation Fund supports water-saving projects
The Water Efficiency Business Innovation Fund provides financial support of up to £15,000 for larger-scale projects. Eligible expenditure includes:
- Equipment hire and purchase
- Building and installation materials
- Skills development and training
- Professional fees, including consultants, contractors and specialist installers
Projects may include rainwater harvesting systems, optimisation of washing processes in food or beverage production, wastewater treatment for reuse, or the introduction of technologies that reduce reliance on potable mains water.
Further information and application details are available on the official South West Water website.
Regional water resilience and community engagement
The launch complements South West Water’s Water Saving Community Fund, which supports grassroots initiatives designed to promote water efficiency at community level. Since April 2025, the community fund has distributed more than £62,000 to 28 projects, contributing to an estimated saving of 2.8 million litres of tap water.
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.”
Alongside business and community support, South West Water is continuing work to reduce leakage across its own network and is assisting customers in identifying and repairing private-side leaks. Approximately 30% of water loss in the region is attributed to pipework owned by customers.
For more coverage on water efficiency and demand management, visit our Water Management section.
