WRF and Partners Seek Utilities of the Future

Mar 10, 2023
Press Release

(Denver, CO) 03/08/23 – The Utility of the Future Today (UotFT) recognition program seeks to honor water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) for community engagement; watershed stewardship; and recovery of resources such as water, energy, and nutrients. Applications for the program are being accepted through April 12, 2023. Public and private water sector utilities of all sizes that can demonstrate achievement of the application requirements are encouraged to apply.

Many WRRFs continually optimize and improve their operations; meet or exceed regulatory requirements; plan for, and invest in, the maintenance, repair, and replacement of their infrastructure; and engage their employees and communities in meaningful ways. The UotFT program recognizes these WRRFs, provides opportunities for them to learn from each other, and encourages them to enhance and sustain their efforts to be utilities of the future.

The UotFT recognition program serves as a model for utilities of all sizes to achieve more efficient operations, enhanced productivity, and long-term sustainability. Since the program launched in 2016, 203 utilities have been recognized with this honor.

The UotFT activity areas include:

  • Beneficial Biosolids Reuse
  • Community Partnership & Engagement
  • Energy Efficiency
  • Energy Generation & Recovery
  • Nutrient & Materials Recovery
  • Water Reuse
  • Watershed Stewardship

This year’s honorees will be formally recognized during an awards ceremony at WEFTEC 2023 this October in Chicago. The UotFT recognition program is a partnership between the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, the Water Environment Federation, The Water Research Foundation, the WateReuse Association, and the U.S. Water Alliance. In addition, the program is supported by advisory partners, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.

To learn more, including how to apply, visit WEF's Utility of the Future Today webpage or email UtilityRecognition@wef.org.