2024 Challenge Results

Solutions for a sustainable water future

In its second year, the Challenge drew ideas from across Victoria’s water corporations, from green hydrogen made with sunlight to low-energy wastewater treatment and biochar that stops algal blooms before they start.

See the Winners

Watch the Ceremony

$255,000

Total Prize Pool

3

Projects Funded

7

Finalists Pitched

5 Dec

2024 Award Ceremony

THE 2024 CHALLENGE

Climate action across the water sector

Climate change is already affecting Victoria’s water sector, putting pressure on water security and raising the risk of more frequent, more intense and overlapping emergencies.

The 2024 Challenge was open to every Victorian water corporation and asked for projects that cut emissions and build resilience in any part of the business. Entries had to be led by a water corporation, and many brought in universities and industry partners to help deliver them.

Diverse water supplies

Making more use of stormwater, recycled water and other sources so supply holds up in a drier climate.

Resilient infrastructure and natural assets

Protecting pipes, plants and waterways from heat, flood, fire and storms.

Operational resilience and efficiency

Running water services with less energy, fewer emissions and less disruption.

Engaged communities

Working with customers, Traditional Owners and local communities on climate action.

Orderly Transition

Planning a steady shift to net zero and to the climate Victoria will face.

RESULTS

2024 Winners

Congratulations to the following water corporations, recommended to the Minister for Water for funding following the final pitch event on 15 November 2024.

WINNER

SOUTH EAST WATER with RMIT University.

Co-production of Green Hydrogen and Oxidant from Direct Solar Radiation

For their world-first off-grid, solar-driven technology to co-produce green hydrogen and oxidant. This solution harnesses renewable energy to reduce emissions and support a low-carbon economy. Installed on a floating modular platform, it integrates with existing water corporation infrastructure, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional methods.

Funding will optimize durability, reliability, and efficiency, enhancing its climate impact.

1st RUNNER UP

GIPPSLAND WATER with Custome Fluids.

Nanobubble Oxygenation

For their Nanobubble Oxygenation project. It can significantly improve the efficacy of aerobic wastewater treatment substantially reducing the energy requirement of the process with the potential to reduce greenhouse gases such as Nitrous Oxide formed during current aeration processes.

2nd RUNNER UP

NORTH EAST WATER with Goulburn Valley Water

Nutrient Sponge Booms for Algae Control Using Biochar in Water Supply Systems

For their Nutrient Sponge Booms for Algae Control project. Using biochar, generated from the pyrolysis of biosolids, to absorb nutrients from stored recycled water to help mitigate algal blooms—an increasingly significant challenge in a changing climate. The resulting nutrient rich biochar has the potential to be used as a fertiliser in agricultural applications.