Western Power Distribution (WPD) has revealed it is undertaking a collaborative project with South West Water to explore how its pumping processes can be used to provide flexibility to the power grid.
The FLOWERS (Flexible Operation of Water Networks Enabling Response Services) project will look at how energy efficiencies and flexibility options can provide mutual benefits to the networks and customers of both businesses.
Thought to be the first of its kind, the FLOWERS project began in February and is being led by WPD along with Smart Grid Consultancy.
As water companies are among the largest electricity users on the grid, the FLOWERS project hopes to create a new type of flexible capacity embedded in the operational processes of water companies.
WPD said the project, which is part funded through the Network Innovation Allowance, could see South West Water modifying the triggers and timing of its pumping processes for both waste water and drinking water in response to the needs of the electricity network.
Nick Devine, WPD innovation engineer, said: “What is particularly exciting about this project is that it is the first of its kind in terms of us working with a water utility and a first step towards the collaborative delivery of innovation projects going forwards.
“We intend this project to be the first in a series where water and electricity distribution networks come together to deliver decarbonisation and net zero for customers by identifying new energy efficiencies.
“It will get the ball rolling for ED2 when we plan to work even more closely with other industries to meet the whole system challenges ahead.”
Angus Berry, head of energy at South West Water, said: “We have ambitious plans to transform the way we operate as a business to not only reduce, but to reverse our carbon emissions.
“This pioneering partnership is great example of how through collaborative working, we can identify innovative solutions for reducing our energy consumption and reaching net zero.”
A final report and recommendation document for the project is expected to be produced in November this year.