Groundbreaker: Climate Change, the Cost-of-Living Crisis and Water

In the UK water conservation has been largely ignored since the summer of 1976 – until now. 

The impact of erratic rainfall patterns has highlighted the wider impact of overuse of water resources.

Even in the UK the change in weather patterns due to global climate change have resulted in, mostly, short term supply issues.  In addition to these ‘direct impacts’, the process of cleaning, processing, and heating water accounts for 6% of CO2 emissions in the UK.[1]

Approximately 17% of energy used in the home is to heat water.[2]

Research had shown that the water efficiency message has little impact on behaviour.  The relative cost of water is low, so monetary savings in not a good incentive.  However, to many, the more immediate issue is energy prices.

Water Meters – supporting behavioural change
On average, people reduce consumption by around 33 litres per day if on a water meter.

Metering is not always easy; many properties have architectural or water supply structures that make traditional metering options impractical. In these cases, Groundbreaker water management system is the best option.  The insulated, surface mounted enclosure and point of entry location makes it the perfect solution for installation in existing properties with shared supply or challenging architecture. Its location on the building also means no street furniture or liability in the highway.

Another advantage is the single joint free connection.  Compliance with no joint policies has been shown to contribute to minimising leakage, which can cause issues to both the property owner and water provider. It meets the best recommendations of Water UK and the Home Builders Federation[3].  In some water company areas, such as Portsmouth Water, Groundbreaker is the standard required for all new properties.

Groundbreaker also future proofs the network.  The stronger communications signal strength relative to underground meter installation makes it ideal for future ultra-smart (5G) two-way metering and ‘internet of things’ (IOT) technologies.

Controlled flow - unconscious consumption reduction
Whilst water efficient appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines, can reduce domestic water and energy usage, much hot water is used in ‘time controlled’ usage e.g. showers or rinsing dishes.  ‘Time controlled’ usage can use excessive water, its reduction is the major means of reducing daily water usage.  

Water companies are regulated to provide a minimum level of water, but in many areas due to network structure and gravity fed systems supply is much greater – upto three times the minimum.  So run a hose for five minutes at the bottom of the hill, and your lawn will be greener that the gardener that does the same at the top.

Groundbreaker's NRv2 LoFlo (above right) regulates the flow and pressure of the water supply to a property Images © Groundbreaker

The simple measure of regulating the flow and pressure of the water supply to a property has been shown to significantly impact household usage.
Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo modulates the level of flow entering premises, reducing the amount of water used in ‘time controlled’ applications.  There is no degradation of service, and more importantly no intervention or behavioural change on the part of the customer, leading to ‘natural’ reduction in consumption. 

Independent research carried out by WRc, showed a theoretical reduction of 2-4% of typical water usage when devices such as LoFlo are installed. However, recent field trials by a major UK water company have shown savings of 5% - just 1% off the average UK per capital consumption reduction targets!

The NRv2 LoFlo can be easily and simply retrofitted to any meter installation, or meter exchange when upgrading or remediating underground meter chambers.  Thus, allowing water demand management with little or no impact on consumers and at minimal cost.

Groundbreaker Systems have been an innovator in the water industry for over 20 years and their products have a proven track record.  Groundbreaker Systems have always worked with the aim of reducing the environmental impact of the industry through its products and manufacturing methods.

For further information on the Groundbreaker products visit www.groundbreaker.co.uk

Steve Leigh FIWater, Managing Director Groundbreaker Systems
Groundbreaker Systems won the HBF’s ‘Utility of the Year’ in 2018.

1. Environment Agency (2008): Greenhouse gas emissions of water supply and demand management options, Science Report – SC070010
2. https://www.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/UK-housing-Fit-for-the-future-CCC-2019.pdf
3. For further information, check the Home Builders Federation Guidance. https://phpdonline.co.uk/news/watersafe-partners-with-the-home-builders-federation-to-reduce-water-leaks-in-new-properties/

Images ©Groundbreaker