Northumbrian Water has named hedgehog lab as its preferred innovation partner for the next 12 months.
The utilities firm has set itself the challenge of becoming the world’s most digital water company.
Newcastle-based hedgehog will play a major role in a number of digital initiatives, including the 2018 NWG Innovation Festival. It will also host 4 innovation challenges aiming to solve problems that have been identified by Northumbrian Water.
“Over the next 12 months we’ll be working with NWG to help them consolidate their position as the utility industry’s most innovative company, exploring how they can utilise rising technologies such as augmented and virtual reality. By doing so, it’s our hope that we can extend our relationship through 2019 and beyond, assisting them in achieving their goal of becoming the world’s most digital water company,” explained Sarat Pediredla, CEO and co-founder at hedgehog lab.
The companies have already collaborated on a voice-activated system for the Amazon Echo device, which is set to be released later in the year.
“We are committed to being the best water company in the country and the most innovative. A huge part of that is about leading the way, trying new things and pushing boundaries in everything we do,” added Nigel Watson, Northumbrian Water group information services director.
“Our partnership with hedgehog lab will allow us to do just that. They’re local, like us they have a real passion for the region and we are both committed to making brilliant things happen for local people. We’re really excited to have them on board with us and can’t wait to see what this new relationship brings for our customers.”
