Innovation was the topic of the day at the first ‘Innovation Event’ run in Northern Ireland for the water sector - NI Water created an opportunity for companies and entrepreneurs to have a chance to pitch their ideas to key influencers in the water industry.

The informative and interactive event, which took place in Belfast at the end of last month, was attended by many industry experts including John Joyce, Chief Economist at the Stockholm Water Institute, Richard Kirk from the Institution of Civil Engineers and NI Water’s CEO Sara Venning. 

Sara Sara Venning  commented: “This event is the first of its kind for NI Water which will benefit not only NI Water and the wider water sector, but also local and national companies, large and small.

“Our fundamental role underpinning  everyday life in Northern Ireland along with our ambition to build on our track record & deliver against our targets, means NI Water has had to become increasingly innovative and creative in finding new solutions and better ways of working.

“Innovation is key to driving efficiency and improving service and our customers and stakeholders both demand and expect it. The quality and creativity of the presentations were first class, showcasing the wealth of talent and expertise available to drive forward the NI economy."

The event focused on providing solutions in the following areas:

• Solutions to develop Smart Water and Waste Water Networks - Winner on the day: Clearwater Controls
• Solution for Low TOTEX in Water and Waste Water Treatment systems -  Winner on the day: BP McKeefry Ltd
• Solutions in Advanced ICT - Winner on the day: Elutions

The three companies will now go forward to work with NI Water with the view to furthering their idea or product which will be subject to the full tendering process.