Opportunities for Utility and Community Group Partnerships

Distributed infrastructure programs – e.g., watershed restoration efforts, turf replacement, efficiency retrofits, onsite graywater systems, smart irrigation tech, GSI – are often delivered more efficiently through partnerships that extend utility capacity.

Many utilities work with third-party implementers (e.g., Resource Central in Colorado) to administer rebates, perform site assessments, and manage contractor networks. This reduces the admin burden on utilities while expanding their reach. In California, NGOs like the California Water Efficiency Partnership (CalWEP) coordinate multi-utility programs. This enables agencies to pool funding, standardize program design, and streamline customer participation. These approaches help utilities scale programs fast, simplify the customer experience, and more easily track participation and water savings.

To learn more about building strong, trust-based partnerships, explore our Building Blocks of Trust modules. For deeper guidance on designing and implementing distributed infrastructure strategies, visit the Distributed Infrastructure Toolkit or connect with our Project Accelerator program for hands-on support. For related approaches to advancing equitable, customer-centered programs, see our Water Affordability Guide.