United Utilities extends its commitment to renewable energy

United Utilities is shining the spotlight on renewable energy with the launch of a long-term Power Purchase Agreement tender.

The tender supports the water and waste water company’s drive to reduce its operational carbon emissions in line with its ambition to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

United Utilities operates more than 100 water treatment works and 575 wastewater treatment works across the region.  As well as having significant energy demands, they also require robust power resilience to maintain essential services for customers and the environment.

Through the power purchase agreements, United Utilities aims to create multiple routes to secure cleaner, greener energy, working with third-party off-site developments and using its own operational land to develop site-based energy generation.

Tom Lissett, Bioresources and Green Energy Director at United Utilities explained: “We already generate renewable energy at several of our larger wastewater treatment sites. Currently this covers around 20% of our total energy usage, our ambitions are to develop that further and we are looking for partners who can help us achieve that.

“Many of our sites have available land or roof space suitable for on‑site generation. In addition, we are seeking opportunities to align with existing or upcoming renewable generation assets close to our operational sites to develop private‑wire Power Purchase Agreements.

“Our operational footprint across the region creates opportunities to integrate low-carbon and renewable energy solutions, diversify our energy portfolio, improve power resilience, reduce operational emissions and contribute to a greener, stronger, and healthier North West.”

United Utilities aims to obtain at least 50,000 MWh of electricity. The procurement will operate under a PA23 Dynamic Market, providing suppliers with the opportunity to join the market over time, and adapt to new and emerging low-carbon technologies.

The procurement runs until 6^th March 2026. Once applicants have successfully passed the membership criteria, they will be eligible to bid for PPA opportunities via competitive flexible procedures as and when opportunities arise. 

Further information is available at Long Term Power Purchase Agreements - Find a Tender.