#375 Innovation Champion – Engineering Matters Awards
Summary
This episode highlights ShowerCap, the winner of the Engineering Matters Awards 2026 Innovation Champion, which uses sensorization and nudge technology to reduce water and energy waste in hotels. Hosts Alex Conacher and Ryan Owen discuss the company’s system, which combines IoT sensors, cloud analytics, and a shower valve that gently fades hot water to encourage shorter durations without restricting flow. Featuring Carly Hunt, Head of Strategic Partnerships, the discussion covers how the solution addresses the UK’s growing water scarcity and the disconnect between perceived and actual water…
Topics discussed
The problem of excessive water use in hotel showers
Introduction to the Engineering Matters episode
ShowerCap wins the Innovation Champion Award
The disconnect between carbon and water awareness
Interview with Carly Hunt on ShowerCap's origins
Visualizing water usage and business risks
Targeting commercial buildings for high consumption
How the ShowerCap system and nudge technology work
Observations on guest behavior and waste patterns
The voluntary nature of the fade timer feature
Data-driven customization of shower durations
Mechanics of the gradual temperature fade
Pilot results: reduced water and CO2 usage
Identifying building inefficiencies through data
Future scaling plans for UK and EU markets
Technological integration and strategic partnerships
Conclusion: The impact on the next guest
Credits and acknowledgments
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