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Reaching net zero

Climate change is a global challenge and reducing emissions requires action at every level. 

While we are reducing emissions from our operations, community behaviour also plays a role in shaping overall energy and water demand. 

Delivering water and wastewater services requires energy for pumping, heating and treatment. The way water is used in homes and businesses directly influences the energy required across the system. 

Reaching net zero is a shared effort. 

The water-energy connection

Water and energy are closely linked. 

  • Water must be pumped and treated before it reaches your tap. 
  • Wastewater must be transported and processed before being safely returned to the environment. 
  • Heating water in homes is one of the largest sources of household energy use. 

Reducing water use, particularly hot water, reduces both household emissions and system-wide energy demand. 

Small changes, multiplied across nearly 2 million customers, create meaningful impact. 

What you can do

Use less hot water 
Shorter showers and efficient appliances reduce both water use and energy demand. Heating water accounts for a significant share of household emissions. 

Improve water efficiency at home 
Install water-efficient showerheads and fixtures. Check for leaks and drips. When upgrading appliances, look for strong ratings under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme. 

Consider alternative water sources 
Rainwater tanks and greywater systems can reduce demand on the drinking water network, particularly for garden use and toilet flushing. 

Choose renewable electricity 
Switching to renewable energy at home reduces emissions associated with water heating and appliance use. 

Solar hot water and heat pump systems 
A solar or a heat pump hot water system can provide a significant energy saving compared to an standard electic mains-only systems and gas hot water systems. 

Support low-carbon businesses 
Consumer choices influence supply chains. Supporting organisations with credible decarbonisation targets helps accelerate broader climate action. 

Why collective action matters

When water demand falls: 

  • Less electricity is required for pumping and treatment 
  • Infrastructure operates more efficiently 
  • System resilience improves during dry periods 

As our community grows, managing demand becomes just as important as improving supply. 

Together, operational improvements and customer action help bend the emissions curve downward. 

Related information

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