Sydney Water has announced that it will be partnering with Veolia to meet the city’s growing demand for water and ensure there is a stable supply in future.

“We’re joining forces with Sydney Water to explore innovative ways to drive a circular economy,” Veolia announced. “Over the next 18 months, together we’ll explore how we can use new and existing technologies to deliver sustainable and resilient water solutions for a growing City.”

The two industry leaders will strategically alter existing water operations so that they become carbon neutral and energy-self-sufficient, and most importantly, secure future supplies. Sydney Water said that the shift in focus is an important step in finding ways to provide a more sustainable water service to the city.

The partnership between Sydney Water and Veolia will facilitate New South Wales Government’s effort to halve carbon emissions within the state by 2030. The Federal government is also aiming to be carbon neutral by 2050.

The hope is that the two companies will use their combined knowledge of water and energy solutions to help meet these targets. Together, they will trial emerging technologies such as those that allow for recycled water usage, and explore energy-saving systems, including water batteries for district cooling.

The trials will take place at the industries’ operating sites over the next 18 months.