INVESTING AND INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE
We are once again on the search for best-in-class performance across the water sector as we introduce the Water Industry Awards 2026.
A new asset management period has brought fresh challenges for the sector and its supply chain, with an unprecedented uptick in capital delivery and stretching targets to sweat existing assets. The sector knows that delivering on these promises is central to rebuilding trust.
This is also the first time we have delivered these awards since the publication of the landmark Independent Water Commission review. The commission was clear that root and branch reform is needed across the sector. That is a responsibility for government and regulators but there is also a clear need for companies and their key partners to challenge the status quo. These awards are a perfect opportunity to do that.
As ever we have reviewed our categories and criteria to sense check whether they are fit for purpose against the current challenges facing the sector. We are delighted to introduce two new categories this year - Emerging Contaminants Control Award and Sustainability Awards – recognising the increasing importance of a sustainable approach to business and the need to tackle emerging contaminants. They join 19 other categories reflecting the breadth of expertise across the sector.
Our judges will be looking out for projects, teams and individuals that can show they have gone beyond regulatory requirements and found creative solutions to the challenges facing the sector. We will reward entries that can demonstrate real benefits not just for the water network but for customers and the environment.
The Water Industry Awards have a special place in the industry, as they mark both the innovation and the critically important collaboration between water companies and their partners in the supply chain. The awards celebrate the very best practice from the front line of the water sector, and we’re proud to attract a mix of entries from the big companies leading the way to the smallest disruptors breaking into the market.
The awards are particularly recognised for their integrity and the rigour of the judging process. This wouldn’t be possible without the incredible commitment of our judging panel, who give up so much of their time and put such effort into making some very difficult decisions. A huge thank you to all of them for their continued support.
We look forward to reading about the innovation and ambition on show across the water sector and being proud to celebrate your achievements.