The challenges and benefits of utility research collaborations by John Norton
Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) is a large utility in Michigan that treats 40% of the state’s water. John emphasizes the importance of utility collaboration for driving technological advancements in the public water sector. John explains that unlike private companies that compete based on product differentiation, water utilities operate in a very different market environment. Their primary decision criteria when selecting technologies are worker safety, permit compliance, and minimizing ecological impact – not cost or competitive advantage. This means utilities have limited incentive to invest in conventional R&D, as the typical drivers for technology diffusion (product optimization, market differentiation) don’t apply. However, John argues that collaborative R&D efforts represent the best method for spreading innovations across the water sector. He provides several examples of successful collaborative projects GLWA has been involved in:
- A Water Research Foundation project studying PCCP and PCC pipe failures, incorporating data and guidance from over 35 utilities.
- Funding a workforce development program at Wayne State University, with participation from multiple utilities like DWSD.
- Collaborative research on biosolids treatment via hydrothermal liquefaction, with a diverse group of utility partners.
- Joint projects with utilities like Tarrant Regional Water District on potable water treatment and pipeline condition assessment technologies.
- Co-authored research papers on topics like PFAS degradation, with multiple utility representatives as authors.
John emphasizes that these types of collaborative efforts are critical, as there is a major disconnect between academic research and the real-world needs of utility operators. Academics may think operators need more data, when in reality operators are often overwhelmed with data they don’t use. Bridging this gap requires close collaboration between utilities, researchers, and operators. John urges other utilities to follow GLWA’s lead and actively engage in collaborative R&D. He notes that while there are challenges – like concerns over sharing sensitive data on issues like Legionella and PFAS – the benefits of working together far outweigh the risks. By pooling resources and expertise, utilities can accelerate innovation and ensure new technologies meet their unique operational needs. In conclusion, John passionately advocates for greater utility collaboration, arguing it is “almost the only way that technology advances in our particular sector.” He provides numerous examples demonstrating how GLWA has successfully partnered with other water agencies, academics, and industry to drive progress on critical issues. John’s message is clear: utilities must set aside competitive mindsets and work together if they want to solve the complex challenges facing the water industry.
Bio
John W. Norton, Jr., PhD., PE , Director of Energy, Research, & Innovation Great Lakes Water Authority
Dr. John Norton is Director of Energy, Research, and Innovation for GLWA, a combined water/wastewater utility in Southeast Michigan. GLWA treats more than 40% of the water, and 30% of the wastewater, for the state of Michigan. Norton leads GLWA’s research efforts to understand, extend, and enhance its linear and process infrastructure and directs projects ranging from source water monitoring and distribution system water quality, through to energy extraction from biosolids. GLWA owns over 388 miles of PCCP, and over 800 miles of transmission main, 4 ft diameter or greater.