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Universities operate on a large and often complex scale, requiring robust systems to manage multiple buildings, varied facilities, and thousands of students and staff. Efficient and sustainable water management systems are critical to ensure operational reliability, reduce costs, and meet environmental standards. Castle Water provides and supports universities across the UK with tailored water services, including approved water suppliers and procurement strategies designed around the demands of campus life.
Universities are expected to lead by example on climate responsibility. Castle Water helps you embed sustainability into your operational practices:
Even small behavioral changes, like reminding students and staff to turn taps off, can add up to significant savings.
Larger institutions often face more complex challenges when it comes to water and wastewater management. Castle Water provides a range of specialist services designed to meet the operational, regulatory, and financial needs of universities with diverse and multi-site campuses.
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), one of the UK’s largest universities with nearly 38,000 staff and students, has significantly reduced its annual water costs by switching to Castle Water as its sole water supplier. Leveraging the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework, UCLan was able to secure competitive water rates, streamline billing through a single provider, and gain access to expert customer support and value-added services. The move is projected to save the university approximately £25,500 each year.
“Joining the CCS tender was the best option for us, it took all the hassle out of the process and saved us a lot of time. I have been very impressed with the team so far. The customer service has been excellent, and the transfer was very smooth.”
– Laura Carter, University of Central Lancashire
Castle Water supports a growing number of higher education institutions, from city-based universities to expansive multi-site campuses, with reliable, cost-effective water and wastewater services. We’re trusted for our straightforward approach, expert support, and commitment to sustainability and efficiency across the public sector. Our dedication to supporting higher education remains unmatched. With more five-star reviews than any other water retailer, we deliver the reliability and service that universities can count on.
Switching to the right supplier can deliver significant cost savings, better service, and improved control over water use. For universities managing large, complex estates, benefits also include consolidated billing, automated meter reading (AMR), expert support with trade effluent, and access to real-time usage data to inform long-term planning and sustainability goals.
Sustainable practices start with visibility and control. AMR helps monitor usage across buildings in real time, while water audits highlight areas of waste or inefficiency. Installing water-saving devices, managing leak detection proactively, and engaging estates teams in efficiency planning all contribute to achieving ESG and net zero targets.
Universities should have contingency plans that include access to bottled, tankered or bulk water in the event of a supply disruption. Working with a supplier like Castle Water ensures rapid response support and guidance on building robust emergency protocols that keep essential services running during outages.
Procurement frameworks simplify and standardise supplier selection, ensuring universities benefit from pre-approved pricing, compliance assurance and reduced admin. Frameworks also support transparent tendering and ensure suppliers understand the specific needs of public institutions, including regulatory responsibilities and environmental targets.
Start with data – AMR and audits give insight into usage and highlight inefficiencies. Implement water-saving devices in residences and teaching spaces, monitor high-use areas like labs and kitchens, and develop long-term efficiency plans across your estate. Training facilities staff and integrating water management into your wider sustainability strategy ensures lasting impact.
Switching your university’s water supplier doesn’t need to be complex, and the benefits can be immediate. From reducing costs to improving sustainability, Castle Water offers tailored support for large, multi-site estates.
Our team understands the demands of higher education and will guide you through every step, ensuring a seamless, compliant transition with no disruption to your supply.
