Call for
Smart and Connected Energy Management
Application Deadline:
7 May 2025
About Organisation
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is a leading non-profit organization committed to advancing scientific knowledge across the entire water sector. As a 501(c)(3) educational foundation, WRF funds and disseminates critical research that enhances the technology, operations, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems. The organization’s goal is to ensure sustainable water quality and improve public water services by delivering practical, science-based solutions.
WRF was established in 2018 through the integration of three renowned research bodies: the Water Research Foundation, the Water Environment Research Foundation, and the WateReuse Research Foundation. Each of these organizations brought a unique area of expertise—drinking water, wastewater and stormwater, and water reuse, respectively. Together, they now form a unified “One Water” organization that promotes holistic, cross-sector research to address modern water challenges. WRF works in close partnership with utilities, academia, government agencies, and industry experts, providing a collaborative platform to solve pressing water-related issues and inform best practices in water management.
About the Grant
This grant opportunity is offered through WRF’s Research Priority Program, supporting innovative research to enhance energy efficiency in water and wastewater utilities using smart technology. The objective of the project is to build a deep understanding of the current landscape of smart and connected energy management systems and provide actionable tools and guidance for implementing smart water networks.
The grant will support research that includes a literature review, surveys across diverse utility types, and case studies to identify where energy inefficiencies occur in water operations. Special focus will be placed on how IoT technologies can provide real-time monitoring and performance evaluation to reduce waste and optimize energy use. This project will also build upon previous WRF research (Project 4917) on pressure and flow management using smart meters.
Expected outcomes include a literature review document, survey summary, detailed final report, utility-focused guidance manual with best practices, and public dissemination through webcasts and publications. The total project duration is anticipated to be 18 months.
This research initiative plays a vital role in helping utilities reduce operational costs and environmental impact by integrating smart systems into everyday water management practices.
Who can Apply?
The grant opportunity is open to both domestic and international applicants. Eligible entities include educational institutions, universities, non-profit research organizations, government agencies, private consulting firms, and for-profit enterprises engaged in water sector research or solutions. Collaborative proposals involving partnerships between different types of organizations are also welcome.
Applicants must demonstrate relevant experience in the field of water and wastewater management, particularly in the application of smart technologies and energy optimization. The team should include professionals with technical knowledge of IoT systems, utility operations, and data analytics. Applicants are expected to conduct surveys, perform case studies, and develop a user-friendly guidance manual tailored to diverse utility environments.
Proposals should outline a clear research methodology, objectives, deliverables, and timeline within the 18-month project period. WRF seeks proposals that are practical, evidence-based, and capable of producing actionable insights for utility stakeholders. Demonstrated capacity to manage research projects and produce quality reports is a key evaluation criterion.
This opportunity encourages applicants who can bridge the gap between technical innovation and utility application, ensuring that the research directly benefits on-ground water and wastewater operations through improved energy efficiency and system performance.
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted online in PDF format through the WRF proposal system. Ensure all documents are complete and uploaded well before the submission deadline to avoid last-minute delays. The proposal should clearly outline your research strategy, qualifications, and alignment with project goals. Late submissions will not be accepted. Carefully review the instructions in the RFP before applying.
Application Deadline
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
