The Challenges And Benefits Of Utility Research Collaborations
Abstract
In this presentation, Dr. John Norton will discuss the unique challenges and significant benefits of collaborative research initiatives in the utility sector. By leveraging partnerships between utilities, academia, and industry, these collaborations can drive innovation, improve service delivery, and address critical issues such as water quality, operational efficiency, and infrastructure resilience. Attendees will gain insights into the best practices for fostering successful collaborations and how these efforts contribute to more sustainable and effective utility management.
Bio
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.
