Utilities Make Waves
WEF's upcoming award could bolster utility profiles
The Water Environment Federation just loves giving out awards. Its upcoming offering could help your local water utility or solutions provider, as the world of water maintenance continues to swell.
The application period is open for the Utility of the Future Today recognition (UotFT) program, "which seeks to honor water resource recovery facilities for community engagement, watershed stewardship, and recovery of resources such as water, energy, and nutrients," according to a WEF press release e-mailed to Electrical Apparatus today.
Austin Water, Texas, one of the 2020 honorees.—WEF photo
"The UotFT utilities serve as anchor institutions in their communities, with a focus on people both within the utility and within the community," the organization wrote, adding that "diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are encouraged in all aspects of utility operations."
The UotFT concept is being promoted as water systems transform operations through innovation and technology. The UotFT is conceived to be a model for utilities of all sizes to achieve more efficient operations, enhanced productivity, and long-term sustainability. Since the program launched in 2016, 203 utilities have been recognized with the honor.
The UotFT activity areas focus on:
Community Partnership & Engagement
Energy Efficiency
Energy Generations & Recovery
Nutrient & Materials Recovery
Water Reuse
Watershed Stewardship
Beneficial Biosolids Reuse
Public and private water sector utilities of all sizes "that can demonstrate achievement of the application requirements" are encouraged to apply by April 12, 2023,11:59 PM ET.
Honorees will be notified during the summer and formally recognized during an awards ceremony at WEFTEC 2023 this October in Chicago. Good luck to all entrants!