RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES:
WQRF is seeking input from academic and research organizations through a Request for Information (RFI) on tap water sample collection and associated data capabilities.
This effort is intended to inform future research directions and potential collaborations to better characterize drinking water quality at the tap. It is not a funding opportunity just yet.
Responses are due May 29, 2026 via this survey link.
We are particularly interested in understanding:
This effort is intended to inform future research directions and potential collaborations to better characterize drinking water quality at the tap. It is not a funding opportunity just yet.
Responses are due May 29, 2026 via this survey link.
We are particularly interested in understanding:
- Current experience collecting tap water samples at the point of use/ point of consumption
- Types and scale of datasets available
- Data ownership, access, and sharing considerations
Energy Savings Study
WQRF is seeking proposals to replicate and expand upon the 2009 Energy Savings study titled "Study on Benefits of Removal of Water Hardness (Calcium and Magnesium Ions) form a Water Supply". The original study provided compelling evidence that the softened water significantly improves the performance and longevity of household water heaters, fixtures, and appliances, while also reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint. The results of the re-evaluation will support both regulatory affairs and public awareness initiatives by providing updated, peer-reviewed data to inform policy, consumer education, and industry best practices.
Notice of Intent (NOI)* to apply is due by 6/15/2026 by 11:00 AM Central.
Proposals are due 7/24/2026 by 11:00 AM Central to [email protected].
*After an NOI is submitted, WQRF will share the full research reports from the 2009 study in order to assist in proposal development.
WQRF is seeking proposals to replicate and expand upon the 2009 Energy Savings study titled "Study on Benefits of Removal of Water Hardness (Calcium and Magnesium Ions) form a Water Supply". The original study provided compelling evidence that the softened water significantly improves the performance and longevity of household water heaters, fixtures, and appliances, while also reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint. The results of the re-evaluation will support both regulatory affairs and public awareness initiatives by providing updated, peer-reviewed data to inform policy, consumer education, and industry best practices.
Notice of Intent (NOI)* to apply is due by 6/15/2026 by 11:00 AM Central.
Proposals are due 7/24/2026 by 11:00 AM Central to [email protected].
*After an NOI is submitted, WQRF will share the full research reports from the 2009 study in order to assist in proposal development.
About WQRF's Research Agenda
1. Final Barrier: Investigate point of use and whole house devices as a means for sustainable treatment to create more opportunities for industry professionals to provide better quality water to more people.
2. Emerging Contaminants: Research to aid or support implementation of technologies to provide cost effective options for emerging contaminants.
3. Regulatory Affairs: Support research to promote sound science in codes and rules and promote knowledge and data about the POU/POE industry and its technologies.
4. International Affairs: Provide independent research support for international growth and efforts of the water treatment industry.
2. Emerging Contaminants: Research to aid or support implementation of technologies to provide cost effective options for emerging contaminants.
3. Regulatory Affairs: Support research to promote sound science in codes and rules and promote knowledge and data about the POU/POE industry and its technologies.
4. International Affairs: Provide independent research support for international growth and efforts of the water treatment industry.
5. Public Awareness: Increase public awareness of water treatment through educational and extension work, demonstrations, shows, symposia, expositions, publications and surveys.
6. Sustainability: Investigate ways to sustain the industry, help protect the environment and aid adoption of sustainable treatment options including reuse, reclamation and other technologies for agencies or localities.
6. Sustainability: Investigate ways to sustain the industry, help protect the environment and aid adoption of sustainable treatment options including reuse, reclamation and other technologies for agencies or localities.
QUESTIONS? Email us: [email protected]
All proposals submitted to WQRF will be treated as confidential and all WQRF staff and volunteers abide by the WQRF Confidentiality Policy.