Queensland Urban Utilities is the first Australian organisation to be invited to join WaterStart, which will allow it to tap into research and technology from around the world.
The utility will have the opportunity to showcase insights from its Innovation Program, which features the use of leading leak detection software and Trenchless Technology during a capacity expansion project.
WaterStart, which connects water and wastewater providers with technology companies, has an extensive list of technologies prioritised for development in the water industry, including remote leak detection, utility location technology and in-place pipe repair technologies.
The organisation and the US Governor’s Office of Economic Development have announced the tenth round of a competitive matching grant process for water technology companies, opening a request for proposals, including for utility location technology.
Queensland Urban Utilities Innovation Research and Development Manager Col Chapman said joining WaterStart was an exciting milestone.
“Since launching our Innovation Program in 2013, we’ve made a concerted effort to embed innovation across our business,” he said.
“At the moment, our Innovation Program is delivering 63 initiatives, of which six key projects are targeting anticipated benefits of up to AU$4 million in efficiencies, savings and offsets for our business.
“Working with WaterStart will allow us to tap into research and technology around the world and give us an opportunity to share insights from our Innovation Program with international partners.”
WaterStart Executive Director Nathan Allen said the agreement was good news for Australia’s start-up community.
“This agreement could provide opportunities for technology companies solving challenges in the Australian water and wastewater industry to be introduced to the market in the US,” he said.
For more information visit the Queensland Urban Utilities website.
If you have news you would like featured in Trenchless Australasia contact Journalist Chloe Jenkins at cjenkins@gs-press.com.au