The application period is open for the Utility of the Future Today recognition program, which seeks to honor water resource recovery facilities for community engagement, watershed stewardship, and recovery of resources such as water, energy, and nutrients.

The Utility of the Future Today concept is being promoted as water systems transform operations through innovation and technology. The Utility of the Future is a model for utilities of all sizes to achieve more efficient operations, enhanced productivity, and long-term sustainability. Since the program launched in 2016, 118 utilities have been recognized with the honor.

The Utility of the Future activity areas focus on the key building blocks of this transformation:

• recovery and new uses of a range of resources;
• engagement as a leader in the full water cycle and broader social, economic, and environmental sustainability of the community;
• engagement in the community and formation of partnerships necessary for success when operating outside of the traditional span of the utility; and
• transformation of the internal utility culture in support of these innovations.

Public and private water sector utilities of all sizes that can demonstrate achievement of the application requirements are encouraged to apply by May 29 at 5 p.m. EDT. Applicants must have no major permit violations in the year prior to the submission date of their applications.

Honorees will be notified during the summer and formally recognized during an awards ceremony at WEFTEC 2020—the Water Environment Federation’s 93rd annual technical exhibition and conference—this October in New Orleans.

Since the Utility of the Future concept was introduced in 2013, many utilities have successfully implemented new and creative programs to address local wastewater technical and community challenges. The recognition program was launched in 2016 by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), the Water Environment Federation (WEF), The Water Research Foundation (WRF), and the WateReuse Association —with input from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

To learn more, visit the Utility of the Future Recognition Program website.