Tax-efficient water technologies

Companies currently undertaking business planning for 2008 should consider investment in water efficient technologies as a tool for boosting operational performance, says Envirowise.

Many commercial sites are unaware they could save as much as 50% on their water bills by investing in relevant technologies as part of a structured, long-term water efficiency project. This could include water-efficient toilets and taps, as well as leakage detection, flow control and monitoring equipment.

The Water Technology List (WTL) - managed by Defra and HMRC in partnership with Envirowise - helps to make this possible by detailing the technologies and products that qualify for up-front tax relief. North West companies can search the list by visiting:

• www.eca-water.gov.uk 

Envirowise Regional Manager for the North West, Nick Ward, says: “Businesses in the region are responsible for a significant proportion of overall water consumption, as many sectors use large volumes of water for process purposes. Although some companies abstract water directly from rivers and boreholes, many take their water from the public water supply system”.

“This is often an unnecessary quality level when you consider the end use might simply be vehicle washing or toilet flushing. It also leaves businesses susceptible to possible disruptions and price fluctuations in the mains water supply – so investigating the WTL is a good option.”

One way businesses are tackling this challenge is by installing Rainwater Harvesting Systems (RHS) and equipment is on the WTL. Appropriate use of RHS as part of a wider water management initiative could help save up to 75% on potable water bills. This would see companies using collected rainwater for toilet flushing, cleaning processes and industrial cooling among other things, all helping to reduce demand on the mains water supply.

“The UK Rainwater Harvesting Association (UKRHA) estimates that around 400 systems are currently being installed each year, but we believe the potential of this technology is far greater,” says Mr Ward.

To find out more about products and technologies on the WTL or to register a product for inclusion on the list, visit:

• www.eca-water.gov.uk

Companies which are keen to take action to address their water consumption can also take advantage of the free advice and support offered by Envirowise. For more information visit:

• www.envirowise.gov.uk/water