Building Better Forecasts: Improving Utility Demand Models with Climate, Development, and Socioeconomic Insights

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is a nonprofit organization that aims to advance the science of water to protect public health and the environment. Through its Research Priority Program, WRF supports projects that address pressing challenges in the water sector, with a focus on applied research that utilities can use directly. This particular opportunity, titled "Building Better Forecasts: Improving Utility Demand Models with Climate, Development, and Socioeconomic Insights," falls under project number 5359 and seeks to enhance the methodologies used in forecasting residential water demand. The core objectives of this funding opportunity include a thorough investigation of how residential demand models account for demand drivers such as socioeconomic conditions, climate variables, and land use or development patterns. The program emphasizes analyzing the assumptions embedded in existing forecasting models and how they influence utility planning. Additionally, applicants are expected to evaluate various modeling tools and their ability to meet scenario-based planning needs while addressing uncertainties in the underlying demand drivers. The funded research will involve the development of three to five case studies from different regions across the United States, demonstrating the application of diverse forecasting methodologies. These case studies should help identify critical gaps in current models, uncover new opportunities, and understand constraints that utilities may face when adopting these advanced approaches. The ultimate aim is to generate a practical set of recommendations and guidelines for utilities, focusing on what variables to include in forecasting models, expected uncertainties, and the financial or resource requirements associated with implementing the proposed methodologies. The total funding available for this opportunity is $200,000. There are no stated requirements regarding cost-sharing or matching contributions. Proposals must be submitted through WRF’s portal by November 20, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Mountain Time. The opportunity is available to a national audience, and interested researchers should closely follow the application instructions and documentation provided on the grant page. Applicants are advised to download and complete all required documents, including the Proposal Budget Form, Certification and Assurance Form, and the Current and Pending Form. The proposal should align with WRF’s submission guidelines and budget instructions. Evaluation will likely consider the utility of proposed models, clarity of methodology, the relevance of case study selections, and the practicality of guidance produced for utility implementation. The main contact for this grant is Sydney Samples. Potential utility collaborators, such as WSSC Water in Maryland, are listed on the RFP page, which is updated regularly as new participants volunteer. Interested parties should consult the RFP document for complete submission instructions and further program guidance.

Address forecast uncertainties clearly; align models with utility planning needs.