Southern Water has launched an ambitious water efficiency initiative to help thousands of households in Brighton & Hove save water and money which could see customers save £88 on an average annual bill of £420.

In partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council, the Consumer Council for Water and University of Sussex, the company will visit nearly 6,000 homes over the next four years to see how much water is being used and fit free products to reduce this.

Under the scheme thousands of householders will receive free water-saving gadgets. The products – including tap aerators, shower heads and toilet dual flush convertors up to the value of £100 - could cut water usage by about 20 per cent which means £88 off an average annual bill of £420.

Water butts can also be purchased and installed at a discounted price of £25. In addition, customers will get information about support tariffs on offer which for some could mean bill discounts.

Ben Earl, Water Efficiency Manager, said:

“This project is a first for Southern Water both in terms of its scale and in linking up with the council to reach as many customers as we can."

“A home visit could cut water use by up to 50 litres per person per day. When you are paying for what you use this means real, tangible savings. Looking at the bigger picture, we have a duty to help customers pay their water bills and avoid debt. We also have environmental responsibilities and must always look for new ways to protect water sources.”

The programme is available to home owners and social housing tenants who are using more water than expected and are on a water meter, and is particularly focused at those who may struggle to pay their bills. However, any customer can request a visit.

The research element of the project is being part-funded by the Consumer Council for Water. The impact of the visits will be monitored by the University of Sussex. If successful, the project will be launched in other areas in Southern Water’s region.

Ana-Maria Millan, Policy Manager at the Consumer Council for Water, said:

"The great thing about saving water at home is it can also reduce energy bills. About a fifth of a typical combined energy bill covers the cost of hot baths, showers or using the hot water tap so there is untapped potential to help customers reduce water and energy bills.”

“Through supporting Southern Water’s research we also have the opportunity to better understand the impact targeted water-saving schemes can have on households in financial difficulty.”

Cllr Anne Meadows, Chair of Brighton & Hove City Council's Housing & New Homes Committee, said that the Council is keen to see how the project can help residents in council properties with high water consumption change their usage and benefit from the results.