Thames Water has announced that it is joining forces with British Gas in a bid to help its customers save money, while combating drought and energy waste.

Under the agreement, which will extend over the next five years, the companies will work together to promote energy-saving and water-saving products.

These include solar panels, heat pumps, energy-efficient boilers, shower savers and dual-flush toilets.

As a first step in the partnership, British Gas will be offering Thames Water’s water customers free loft and cavity wall insulation.

While installers are in customers’ homes, they will also offer to fit water-saving devices.

Piers Clark, the commercial director for Thames Water, said:  "About a third of all the energy we use in our homes goes on heating water, so if we save water we save money off two utility bills, not to mention burning less carbon.

“It is this crucial overlap between energy and water efficiency that the partnership will help address.

“Having had below-average rainfall for 16 of the past 21 months and with the prospect of a drought later this year, saving water is a must right now."

David Bland, of the Consumer Council for Water, said that it was refereshing to see two big untilities working together to benefit their customers and the environment.

“The link between energy and water is one that we all need to be mindful of, particularly with water in short supply in the south east this year and with energy prices not set to go downwards over the long term,” he said.

“For instance, often water in homes is heated up only to cool down then be re-heated again - a problem that can be addressed simply enough with a combination boiler."

Thames Water provides sewerage services across Elmbridge and water in the Esher and Molesey areas.