2021 Intelligent Water Systems Challenge Launched

The 2021 Intelligent Water Systems Challenge (IWS Challenge) is underway and will showcase innovative ways that intelligent water systems can be utilized by utilities to improve resilience. The overarching goal of the IWS Challenge is to demonstrate the value of using advanced sensing and/or data technology to deliver cost-effective operations and sustainable watershed management for utilities while allowing students, professionals, and technology enthusiasts the opportunity to showcase their talents and innovations.

The IWS Challenge will run through October 2021. Scenarios will focus on collection systems, wastewater and drinking water treatment systems, source water/watersheds, and distribution networks. Teams with innovative solutions will be invited to present their results in person at WEFTEC 2021 in Chicago for final judging. The winning team will receive a cash award of $10,000.

The IWS Challenge is hosted by the Leaders Innovation Forum for Technology (LIFT), a joint effort by The Water Research Foundation (WRF) and the Water Environment Federation, and is also supported by the American Water Works Association, BlueTech Research, Cleveland Water Alliance, IEEE Smart Cities TAC, Imagine H2O, International Society of Automation, and the Smart Water Networks Forum.

“Water utility resilience is more important than ever,” said Dr. Peter Grevatt, WRF CEO. “We look forward to seeing the exciting solutions and innovative thinking brought forward by this year’s IWS Challenge.”

The deadline for team registration is April 9, 2021. Registration information, guidance, and FAQs can be found on the WRF website.

About The Water Research Foundation
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public. For more information, visit www.waterrf.org. 

About the Water Environment Federation
The Water Environment Federation (WEF) is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization of 33,000 individual members and 75 affiliated Member Associations representing water quality professionals around the world. Since 1928, WEF and its members have protected public health and the environment. As a global water sector leader, our mission is to connect water professionals; enrich the expertise of water professionals; increase the awareness of the impact and value of water; and provide a platform for water sector innovation. For more information, visit www.wef.org.