Severn Trent has set up the first in a network of global innovation hubs to bring ideas from around the world to apply in its region.
The company will recruit local scouts in each area to find solutions to common challenges, with an initial focus on carbon emissions and leakage.
The first hub has been established in Scandinavia for a three-month scouting expedition to find potential game-changing technologies.
Richard Walywn, head of asset intelligence and innovation explained Severn Trent was looking to build on its tradition of “pushing boundaries when it comes to innovation” by looking around the world. He said: “As innovators, we know some of the best ideas come from others. So, we’re recruiting local scouts in key regions, starting in Northern Europe, to help us explore new solutions for some of Severn Trent’s biggest challenges.”
It will expand its innovation networks into Southern Europe, Australia & New Zealand, North America, South America and Southeast Asia later in the year.