INDUSTRY UPDATE


UWLA says being more water efficient can help save money on household bills


he Unified Water Label Association, (UWLA) has urged homeowners to look at water efficiency in the home, to help save on household bills, as they face rising water bills in 2025.


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The advice comes in response to the news from industry regulator Ofwat that a typical water bill will rise by an average of £86 from April this year, with average water and sewerage bills rises of £157 (36%) expected over the next five years.


UWLA MD Yvonne Orgill said, “One mistake people make is not upgrading from outdated, inefficient products to more innovative solutions. The industry is leading the way with a wide range of products that carry the Unified Water Label, which clearly identifies how water and energy efficient the product is. Water and energy are inextricably linked in the home, reducing water will reduce energy, which is kinder to the


The AI revolution and us – By Damian Walters, BiKBBI CEO


’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the KBB sector. Without doubt, AI is revolutionising our industry, from optimising supply chains to enhancing customer experiences with predictive analytics. It’s no exaggeration to say that AI is a game-changer for us and this should be celebrated.


I But while we ride this wave of technological advancement, there’s an


urgent issue we can’t afford to ignore: the labour shortage. Our industry is facing a critical gap in skilled workers, and this shortage poses a direct threat to our future growth ambitions, our economy, government targets and our ability to bounce back from any financial downturn. AI can do a lot, but it can’t replace the craftsmanship, creativity, and human touch that are the hallmarks of our industry.


Investing in AI is essential but so is investing in people. We need to cultivate the next generation of skilled workers by providing robust training programs, offering attractive career paths, and fostering a culture that values and respects the talent that drives our industry on the literal front line, on construction sites and in our customers’ homes. It’s about creating a balance where technology and human expertise go hand-in-hand. Sure, AI can support our workforce by taking on repetitive tech tasks, allowing our humans to focus on what they do best: creating beautiful, functional spaces. But without addressing the labour shortage, we risk stalling our progress. The future of the KBB sector depends on our ability to integrate AI while simultaneously nurturing and growing our human capital. So, let’s embrace AI for the incredible opportunities it brings, but let’s also remember that our industry’s heart beats with the people who bring our projects to life. Investing in AI and investing in people are not mutually exclusive; they are both vital to our continued success.


Damian Walters Chief Executive Officer, BiKBBI www.uwla.eu BKU FEBRUARY 2025 41


environment and will also save the user money from utility bills. Around 18% of energy consumption in UK homes is spent heating water, and about 12% of a typical gas heated home’s heating bill is from the water for showers, baths and the hot water tap. “People can also improve water and energy efficiency in the home by


changing their habits and better


maintenance. For example, fixing leaking taps, or cutting back on the


time in the shower, are examples.


“The UWLA works with industry to help them communicate and educate consumers on the importance of changing behaviours, as minor changes can bring about significant benefits.


“Consumers can look for the Unified Water Label on products, websites and packaging. The UWLA website also has a wealth of free information, tips and advice for the homeowner. The website also gives access to the product database enabling visitors to select new products, with over 160 brands, and 20,000 products there is plenty of choice.”


VISIT US AT ISH


The Unified Water Label Association (UWLA) will be exhibiting at ISH, the leading trade fair for HVAC + Water, which will be held in Frankfurt from 17 to 23 March 2025.


The UWLA will be at Stand 4.1 FOY18 with its partner the European Association for the Taps and Valves Industry (CEIR) and is hosting a presentation on Tuesday 18 March for EU commissioners, partners, members, press and other interested parties.


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