Portsmouth Water supports 24 local schools to save water through major new initiative
Portsmouth Water is helping 24 schools across its supply area save thousands of litres of water and reduce costs as part of a major nationwide water efficiency programme.
The company has joined with water retailer Wave and sustainability specialists SaveMoneyCutCarbon to deliver the Big Blue Eco Booster Project locally, an ambitious initiative aiming to save up to two billion litres of water in schools across England.
Through the programme, Portsmouth Water is funding water efficiency audits and the installation of water-saving devices in 24 schools, supporting them to reduce water use, identify leaks and in turn, lower bills.
Early results from the national scheme are already demonstrating its potential impact. Across participating schools, the project has delivered savings of more than 103,783 litres of water every day, alongside annual cost savings of more than £81,726.
Locally, participating schools could cut their water use by between 20 and 40 per cent, delivering meaningful environmental and financial benefits. The project’s impact has been recognised with a finalist nomination for Water Efficiency Project of the Year at the 2026 Water Industry Awards, with the winner set to be announced on the 24th June.
Bob Taylor, Chief Executive Officer at Portsmouth Water, said:
“We’re really excited to be rolling this project out to 24 schools in our area and to see the difference it will make locally.
“Water usage tends to be high in schools, and improving efficiency and identifying leaks in buildings like these can have a significant impact. The scheme has the potential to reduce usage by between 20 and 40 percent. These are significant savings and, in the context of increasing pressure on water resources in the South East, every drop counts. We’re looking forward to seeing the positive results this project will bring.”
The Big Blue Eco Booster Project, which began in October 2025, provides schools with tailored site visits, expert advice, and practical interventions such as leak detection and water-saving fittings.
Oli Shelley, Director of Water Efficiency Services at Wave, said:
“By giving schools the tools and practical support to cut water waste, we are helping to lower bills, protect resources, and inspire the next generation.”
The South East is under increasing pressure from a water resources perspective due to climate change, population growth and the need to leave more water in the environment to benefit nature.
Portsmouth Water has launched its largest ever investment programme, committing £377 million to help meet this challenge. This includes reducing leakage, improving water efficiency and rolling out initiatives such as these, to support organisations within its supply area to save water.
Customers looking to improve their water efficiency can also access free water-saving devices here: GetWaterFit
For more information about saving water, visit: Water saving tips – in the home | Portsmouth Water