Up to £5 million available to support innovative solutions tackling customer-side water leakage
The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is pleased to support the launch of the second Water Efficiency Lab (WEL 2) competition, an exciting funding opportunity designed to accelerate innovation in water efficiency across England and Wales.
Part of Ofwat's £100 million Water Efficiency Fund, the Water Efficiency Lab is helping to develop innovative technologies, products and approaches that will reduce water demand, improve resilience and protect one of our most valuable natural resources. The programme will award up to £5 million in funding during this latest competition, with individual projects able to apply for between £150,000 and £1.5 million.
Focus on reducing customer-side leakage
The second competition focuses on customer-side leakage – leaks from water pipes and fittings that property owners are responsible for maintaining. This includes leaks from internal plumbing systems such as toilets, taps and valves, as well as external supply pipes within property boundaries.
Reducing these often-hidden leaks has the potential to save significant volumes of water, lower customer bills and help safeguard future water supplies. It also presents opportunities for innovators, manufacturers, installers, researchers and technology providers to develop practical solutions that can make a real difference.
Supporting innovation across the plumbing and heating sector
As the professional body for the plumbing and heating profession, CIPHE recognises the important role that skilled installers, manufacturers and innovators play in improving water efficiency and protecting public health.
The Institute welcomes initiatives that encourage collaboration and innovation across the sector, helping to develop new technologies and smarter ways to identify, prevent and reduce water waste.
Applications are open to UK innovators from a wide range of sectors, including businesses, universities, start-ups, charities, technology developers and water companies, with international organisations also able to participate through a UK-based lead partner.
Anyone intrested in applying can access the competition guidance, eligibility criteria and application materials via the Water Efficiency Lab website. Those considering an application are also encouraged to register for the Launch Webinar, taking place on Wednesday 12 August 2026 at 12:00pm (BST), where the delivery team will explain the competition and answer questions from prospective entrants.
For further information, visit: Water Efficiency Lab