United Utilities is shaking things up in the water sector with its ambitious ‘Project Blueprint,’ a game-changing initiative aimed at standardizing asset design across the industry. This North West water and wastewater company is not just playing the numbers; they’re focusing on delivering high-quality assets quickly and safely while also ensuring that customers see real value. With the water sector facing increasing pressures to modernize and innovate, United Utilities is stepping up to the plate, leading the charge for standardization that could reshape how the industry operates.
The recent ‘Collaboration for Standardisation’ event at the Halliwell Jones stadium in Warrington showcased the company’s commitment to this initiative. Bringing together engineering, maintenance, and commercial teams, along with over 20 partners from the supply chain, the event was a melting pot of ideas aimed at promoting the use of standard asset designs. The goal? To share designs, knowledge, and resources that benefit not just the companies involved, but also the customers and the environment at large.
Standard assets are a breath of fresh air in a sector often bogged down by complexity and inefficiency. They can be ordered quickly and are versatile enough to fit multiple site scenarios. This standardization simplifies maintenance and repair processes, making life easier for operational teams. Moreover, the flexibility to incorporate new technologies or materials into these standard products means that innovation doesn’t have to come at the cost of speed or efficiency.
United Utilities has already made impressive strides by bulk purchasing standard asset designs, leading to substantial cost savings and reduced carbon emissions. Reports indicate that they have saved a staggering 83% in design time and achieved a 46% reduction in operational carbon emissions for certain projects. These figures aren’t just numbers; they represent a significant step towards a more sustainable and efficient water industry.
The event also highlighted collaborations with suppliers like Evolution Aqua and Haigh, who showcased innovative technologies like Flocell, a sustainable water filtration system, and Fujiclean. The involvement of local businesses in the North West to develop standard assets for the upcoming AMP8 investment program from 2025 to 2030 is a clear indication that this initiative is not just a flash in the pan; it’s a long-term strategy.
Jane Simpson, the Commercial Engineering and Capital Delivery Director at United Utilities, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating, “Standardising our assets has been on our radar for some time, but with AMP8 around the corner, it’s never been more important for upgrading sites and equipment safely and quickly as part of our huge investment proposals.” Her words encapsulate the pressing need for the water sector to adapt and evolve in a rapidly changing landscape.
As other water companies take note of United Utilities’ approach, we could be on the brink of a significant transformation in the industry. By fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, the sector can innovate at a pace that meets the demands of the modern world. This isn’t just about making life easier for companies; it’s about building a stronger, greener, and healthier future for the communities they serve. The ripple effects of Project Blueprint may well extend far beyond the North West, setting a precedent for standardization that could redefine how water utilities operate across the UK and beyond.
