H2O Global News Magazine - Issue 13 - Non-Revenue Water

Marc Hannis

THE TRUSTED PARTNER FOR CIRCULAR SOLUTIONS IN WATER AND WASTE.

For more than 160 years, SUEZ has been acting to deliver essential services that protect and improve the quality of life wherever we operate.

SUEZ enables its customers to provide access to water and waste services, with resilient and innovative solutions, to create value over the entire lifecycle of their assets and services and to drive the ecological transition together with their end users.

Publisher’s note

Dear Readers,

Welcome to this latest edition of our magazine, where we continue to explore critical innovations shaping the future of water management globally.

This issue places a sharp focus on non-revenue water challenges and the role of digital transformation in addressing them. We are privileged to feature Marc Hannis, Principal of the Ofwat Innovation Fund, on our cover. Beginning on page 10, Marc provides a compelling insight into the fund, highlighting the power of competition and the urgent need for water companies to innovate.

Our editorial team has once again examined key issues affecting water systems worldwide:

Analytics in Action – A deep dive into how Specific Energy’s data-driven solutions help utilities make smarter decisions.

Lessons from Japan – Exploring how Japan’s experience can significantly enhance water management efforts in Africa and Asia.

Ageing Infrastructure in Europe – Addressing the pressing need to update Europe’s water systems.

India’s Water Loss Battle – Investigating innovative approaches to reduce water loss across India.

Our coverage combines insights from leading experts and stories from around the globe, delivering actionable knowledge and exciting solutions.

Finally, a heartfelt thanks to you, our dedicated readers and subscribers. We hope you’ve enjoyed the first edition of the year. Here’s to an innovative 2025 that pushes boundaries and transforms the water industry.

Your continued engagement inspires us, and we look forward to bringing you more critical insights in the issues to come.

Warm regards,

Abby Davey Publisher and Co-Founder

Publisher and Co-Founder

Abby Davey abby@h2oglobalnews.com

Creative Director and Co-Founder

Louise Davey louise@h2oglobalnews.com

Editorial Team

Darby Bonner darby@h2oglobalnews.com

Martyn Shuttleworth martyn@h2oglobalnews.com

Natasha Posnett natasha@h2oglobalnews.com

Advertising +44 (0)7817 105 258 marketing@h2oglobalnews.com

H2O Global News delivers news from around the world covering the Drinking/Potable Water, Hydropower and Wastewater industries incorporating technology, companies, legislation, the environment and case studies. The H2O Global News Magazine is published four times a year (Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter) by Blue Manta Media Limited, Buckinghamshire, England, UK.

H2O Global News t/a Blue Manta Media Limited has used utmost care to ensure and maintain the accuracy, completeness and currency of information published on this site. We, however, take no responsibility for any errors or omission, though if notified of any we will endeavour to rectify such.

CGN is an innovative platform that bridges the gap between industry, research and policy in a modern climate conversation. We enable our users to engage in meaningful conversations about the future of our planet and strive to create an open space where collaborators from all sectors can work together for sustainable progress.

4-9 Editor Features

10-13 Building the Future: A Tour of Ofwat’s Innovation Fund with Marc Hannis

14-15 Evergloss’ Holistic Approach to NRW

16-18 Smart Water Meters: Winning the Battle Against Non-Revenue Water

19-20 How Kemio’s Digital Platform Supports Utilities in Tackling Non-Revenue Water

21-22 From Real-Time Data to Actionable Insights and Asset Planning

23-25 National Leakage Research and Test Centre

26-27 How Can India Reduce Water Loss?

28-30 Fracta Partnership: Changing How The Water Industry Mitigates Water Loss With Integrated Digital Solutions

Leaking Profits: Europe’s Struggle With Aging Water Systems

WRITTEN BY | NATASHA POSNETT

Some European cities have had their water systems in place for over a century! This may sound impressive, but it also comes with challenges. The issue of non-revenue water (NRW) has become a worry across many of Europe’s most loved cities, and the time has come to implement new measures to address the matter.

NRW refers to water that is produced but not billed to consumers. This “lost” water arises from leaks, unauthorised consumption, metering inaccuracies, or even administrative errors. In cities with ageing infrastructure, outdated systems further compound these issues, leading to greater inefficiencies, higher operational costs, and environmental and financial strains.

The Impact of Aging Infrastructure on NRW in Europe

Many European cities, particularly those in Western and Central Europe, are facing the dual challenge of managing old infrastructure while striving to maintain reliable water supplies. Networks built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries have reached the end of their lifespan. While these systems were once state-of-the-art, the long-term effects of corrosion, wear and tear are now being felt across the continent.

Leaks and Pipe Failures

One of the most common causes of NRW in older water systems is the deterioration of underground pipes. As cast iron, steel, and other materials corrode over time, the risk of leaks increases. These leaks can be small and hard to detect, leading to significant water losses that may go unnoticed for months or even years. In cities like Paris, Rome, and Athens, where much of the infrastructure dates back over 100 years, undetected

leaks can account for a substantial percentage of NRW, sometimes exceeding 30%.

High Maintenance Costs

Old infrastructure also requires more maintenance and frequent repairs to keep the system functioning. Utilities in cities with ageing networks face increased operational costs to monitor, repair, and replace failing pipes and equipment. The ongoing need for repairs strains budgets and limits utilities’ capacity to invest in modernising their networks or addressing other issues, such as expanding the water supply to growing urban populations.

Difficulty in Detecting Leaks

Accurately identifying and fixing leaks can be challenging in cities with centuries-old water systems. Older pipes are often buried deep under streets, making it difficult for utilities to pinpoint the exact location of water losses. Traditional leak detection methods, such as pressure testing, can be costly and labour-intensive. New technologies, such as acoustic sensors and smart meters, are not always implemented due to budgetary constraints.

Which Countries Are Struggling?

Paris boasts one of Europe’s most extensive water networks, with over 4,000 kilometres of pipes serving its residents. However, due to the age of the system—many pipes are more than 100 years old—the city loses a significant amount of water each year. In some areas, the NRW rate is estimated to be as high as 25%. While the city has made strides in improving its water network through modern leak detection and pipe replacement programs, the sheer scale of the issue means it

Natasha Posnett Staff Writer at H2O Global News

will take years to address fully.

Rome’s water infrastructure is equally aged, with pipes dating back to Roman times still in use in some parts of the city. NRW in Rome is a persistent problem, with losses of up to 45% in some areas of the city. The combination of old infrastructure, population growth, and inadequate maintenance has led to significant inefficiencies. Recent initiatives to replace leaking pipes and upgrade the water network have started to show results, but the process is slow, costly, and complicated.

Athens faces a unique set of challenges with its ageing water infrastructure. With a substantial portion of the city’s water pipes having been laid out in the mid-20th century, leakage rates are among the highest in Europe, with NRW levels often surpassing 40%. Efforts to modernise the water system have been stymied by budget constraints and the complexity of the existing network, making it difficult to identify and fix leaks quickly. Moreover, Athens’ reliance on underground aquifers and its vulnerability to drought exacerbate the financial and environmental consequences of NRW.

What Next?

Addressing NRW in European cities with ageing infrastructure requires a combination of innovative technology, targeted investments, and long-term planning. While complete overhauls of water networks are expensive and disruptive, there are other steps that can be implemented to significantly reduce water losses and improve system efficiency.

One of the most effective ways to reduce NRW is to replace aging pipes with more durable, corrosion-resistant materials gradually. Modern piping systems made of plastic or composite materials offer a longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements compared to traditional metals. While this process can be costly, prioritising the replacement of the most problematic areas can reduce leaks and water losses over time.

The use of smart meters, sensors, and digital leak detection systems can help utilities identify problems more quickly and

precisely. These technologies can monitor pressure changes in real-time, detect small leaks before they become major issues, and provide accurate consumption data, reducing the potential for meter inaccuracies and billing errors. European cities are beginning to adopt these technologies, although full-scale implementation across older networks will take time.

A management practice allows utilities to track the health of their infrastructure more effectively. By prioritising maintenance and replacement based on the condition of the pipes rather than age alone, cities can optimise their repair budgets and prevent large-scale failures. Using GIS to map and monitor networks can also help utilities plan more strategically for repairs and upgrades.

Government intervention is often crucial in addressing NRW issues in cities with ageing infrastructure. Policymakers can encourage utilities to modernise through incentives, funding programs, and stricter regulations on water loss reduction. The European Union has also recognised the importance of addressing NRW in its environmental policies and has allocated funding to support water infrastructure projects across the continent.

Conclusion

The challenge of Non-Revenue Water in European cities is closely tied to the age and condition of the water infrastructure. As many cities face the daunting task of modernising networks built over a century ago, reducing NRW will require a combination of technological innovation, financial investment and coordinated planning. Although the path to full system modernisation is long and costly, the benefits- reduced water loss, improved operational efficiency and a more sustainable water supply- are well worth the effort. As European cities continue to fight with ageing infrastructure, addressing NRW will be essential to ensuring water security for the future.

Valves, Robots, and Dogs: Who Needs Digital Twins?

Written By | MARTYN SHUTTLEWORTH

As a confirmed techno-nerd, I am always on the lookout for new technologies that help the water sector overcome problems such as water leakage. Presently, Artificial Intelligence, digital twins, and smart meters dominate the discourse, helping utilities create intricate models of their systems and identify potential problems. Of course, they are not the only options, and it is always interesting to look at other solutions, whether old-school, inspired, or simply lateral thinking. Some of these technologies support leak detection or help utilities fix leaks without digging up roads and inconveniencing the public, while others try to prevent leaks happening in the first place.

Pipe Robots

One of my favourite technologies for detecting leaks is pipe robots, which are becoming more common as a way to detect leaks, illegal connections, and sewage contamination in waterpipes. Most are simply small remote-controlled robots, fitted with cameras and other sensors, that traverse pipes and allow engineers to assess

problems. However, researchers are already looking at the next generation of pipe robots in the form of small, autonomous pipebots that use AI and machine learning to detect problems before they arise.

Recent University of Sheffield research, led by Prof Kirill Horoshenkov, designed small autonomous robots that swim through pipes and, with the help of cameras and microphones, decide whether a pipe needs maintenance or not. There are still some difficulties to be ironed out, such the problem of communication underground that may require a ‘mothership’ to send out smaller pipebots working in sequence to relay information. While still under development, this technology could revolutionise the way we detect potential problems before they become leaks.

Pipe Lining

When a water main fails or needs replacement, the utility faces the task of digging a huge trench and replacing the entire pipe. This is expensive and disruptive, stretching maintenance budgets and passing costs onto customers at a time when water utilities face intense

Martyn Shuttleworth Staff Writer at H2O Global News

criticism over their finances. Now, faced with aging infrastructure, utilities are turning towards rehabilitation and extending the life of pipes. One way of doing this is with pipe lining, which involves creating a new waterproof seal within a pipe.

Although there are many pipe-lining options, a popular choice is the Cured-In-Place-Pipe (CIPP) technique which, although not a new idea, has evolved over the decades with new materials and techniques. With this system, a liner made from polyester felt and fiberglass, and impregnated with resin, is pulled through a pipe and inflated to ensure it fits the pipe’s contours. Once in place, curing with steam, heat, UV light, or even ambiently creates a durable and watertight finish. Knitted polyester liners, which are excellent for pipes with bends and irregular shapes, are another option, and some types don’t require curing. Importantly, CIPP is suitable for use with potable water and does not significantly reduce the diameter of the pipe or significantly restrict flow.

No Dig Pipe Repairs

An interesting pipe repair technology comes in the form of Origin’s No-Dig technology, which has emerged from pilot testing with credit. Developed with Northumbria Water, Origin’s No-Dig involves injecting a solution consisting of a combination of water, food-grade thickening gel, and calcium carbonate into leaking pipes. The system sends the gel solution down the pipe and, when it encounters a leak, it seeps out. The mineral particles wedge together, creating a tight seal from the outside of the pipe. Also tested by Thames Water, the technology is a very promising option in urban areas

where digging trenches is costly and disruptive.

Pressure Reducing Valves

Often the main reason for a water utility experiencing high leak and burst frequencies is an aging pipe network still in operation way beyond its expected lifespan. One major cause of leaks in pipes is high water pressure and water hammer, especially when pipes become constricted and weaken with age. Any pressure spikes can cause the pipes to fail so, for this reason, pipe bursts often happen in off-peak periods or at nighttime where demand is lower and the water pressure in the pipe is higher. Pressure reducing valves allow the utility to reduce the pressure during low demand and increase it during high demand. In Tblisi, Georgian Water and Power reduced its rate of bursts and leakages significantly, reducing NRW by 50% while saving on maintenance costs and also reducing energy usage.

Sniffer Dogs

Quite possibly my favourite leak detection technology relies on one of the oldest methods of all. In Scotland, Scottish Water is using sniffer dogs to detect leaks in rural areas. In many areas, especially boggy areas, it is difficult for modern techniques to detect leaks from underground pipes. However, these clever canines, trained to smell even the smallest concentrations of chlorine, can sense the difference between treated mains water and surface water and help locate the leak. Even now, a dog’s nose is still one of the best sensors of all.

How Japan’s Experience Can Transform Water Management in Africa & Asia

WRITTEN BY | DARBY BONNER

Non-revenue water poses a silent threat to water security, especially in vulnerable communities. In many low- and middleincome countries, for example, in Nairobi, NRW losses are 40%, and some countries are losing more than 80% of water. Increased NRW losses generally come from poor management of water sources by municipal water utilities and the local communities not knowing where their water pipes are, why they are losing water, and where it is being stolen. These losses undermine financial stability, waste precious resources, and critically weaken system resilience against growing threats from natural disasters, rapid urbanisation, and climate change.

Japan’s Lessons in NRW Reduction & Resilience

Tokyo’s water network once “leaked like a sieve” with 80% water loss following WW2’s devastating infrastructure damage. Across Japan, 90 cities suffered air raid damage, with over 50% of the country’s service pipes destroyed. This historical context shaped Japan’s methodical approach to NRW management, offering valuable lessons for developing countries. Highperforming utilities such as Japan’s Fukuoka Waterworks Bureau have however turned the tide and have an impressive NRW rate in Japan of <9%.

Japan’s stage-based approach to reducing leakage has yielded remarkable results through both immediate post-war reconstruction efforts and sustained national funding. What makes Japan’s NRW management distinctive is its comprehensive focus:

• Leakage reduction as the primary target, with illegal

connections being rare and meter inaccuracies minimised through legislation.

• Recognition that NRW affects multiple aspects of service: water quality (contamination at leakage points), customer satisfaction (pressure and reliability issues), resource management (especially during droughts), and financial stability.

• Strong legislative framework including the Measurement Act, which mandates meter replacement every 8 years, and the Water Supply Act requiring utilities to maintain meters in good working condition.

Japan’s systematic approach includes:

• Securing adequate financial resources for infrastructure investment

• Establishing dedicated leakage control teams

• Conducting regular surveys with robust data collection and analysis

• Developing improved pipe materials and technologies including planned pipe replacement using ferrule with stainless steel saddle and flexible service connections

Fukuoka City exemplifies this approach. After experiencing severe droughts in 1977 and 1994 that necessitated water rationing for approx. 300 days each, Japan’s utility implemented comprehensive countermeasures that eliminated rationing during a similar drought in 2005:

1. Water resource diversification: Development of multiple sources, including river intake facilities and seawater desalination.

Darby Bonner

Staff Writer at H2O Global News

2. Advanced distribution control: Establishment of Japan’s first Water Distribution Control Center in 1981 to monitor and remotely control water quality, flows, and pressures.

3. Risk-based leakage management: Implementation of both corrective measures (mobile repair teams for prompt response) and preventative strategies (systematic pipe replacement, pressure management, and network analysis).

The results speak for themselves. NRW reduced to <9% and enhanced resilience against climate variability. This progressive approach from moving from reactive repairs to proactive detection and ultimately to systematic replacement, just shows how coordinated efforts across utility departments can transform water infrastructure management.

While Japan’s advanced technological solutions may seem beyond reach for many low- and middle-income communities, several core principles and adapted approaches have proven successful across Africa and Asia.

Utilising Japan’s NRW Loss Solutions in Africa & Asia

In Kenya’s Nairobi, simple but effective district metering areas (DMAs) have helped reduce NRW by driving distribution networks into manageable zones for monitoring flows and pressures. This approach identifies areas with high losses, enabling targeted repairs to help reach the Government of Kenya’s goal of reducing NRW by 25% by 2030

Similarly, in the Philippines, water utilities have deployed basic but functional supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) to detect unusual flow patterns indicative of leaks or unauthorised connections. While less advanced than Japan, these systems follow the same principle at a fraction of the cost.

Emergency Preparedness

Japan’s portfolio approach to risk management offers valuable lessons for utilities in developing countries. In Vietnam’s Danang Water Supply Company, risk-based asset management principles have led to prioritised pipe replacement programs in high-risk areas, reducing both NRW and service disruptions during extreme weather events.

Hiroshima City’s landslide experiences highlight the importance of redundant systems and emergency preparedness in Japan. Following this model, utilities in flood-prone areas of Bangladesh (Dhaka) have installed emergency interconnections between water systems and implemented uninterruptible power supplies at critical pumping stations.

The creation of emergency water reserves, similar to Japan’s underground storage tanks in Hiroshima, has been adopted in drought-vulnerable regions of Tanzania through communitymanaged rainwater harvesting systems that serve as backup supplies during service interruptions.

The Economic Case for Action

Beyond technological considerations, the economic case for addressing NRW is compelling. While it’s unrealistic to expect water utilities to eliminate all commercial and physical losses, significant improvements are achievable. In developing countries, reducing NRW could provide 8 billion cubic meters per year of already treated water - enough to serve an additional 90 million people who currently lack access to piped water while saving an estimated US$1.6 billion per year in production and pumping costs. Similarly, cutting commercial water losses by 50% could generate another US$1.3 billion in additional revenues. These potential gains represent crucial resources for infrastructure investment and resilience building.

A Path Forward

As climate change intensifies and urbanisation accelerates, the resilience of drinking water systems in low- and middleincome communities will face unprecedented tests. Addressing NRW represents perhaps the most cost-effective pathway to enhancing this resilience.

By adapting lessons from success stories in Japan to local contexts, utilities in Africa and Asia can build water systems that not only meet today’s needs but can withstand tomorrow’s challenges. With appropriate investment, policy support, and knowledge sharing, the vision of resilient water systems that reliably deliver safe water to all communities (regardless of income level) can become a reality. The technology already exists, the models have been proven, and the economic case is clear - what remains is the will to act.

COVER FEATURE

Building the Future: A Tour of Ofwat’s Innovation Fund with Marc Hannis

Interviewed by | MARTYN SHUTTLEWORTH

Watch the news or catch up online, and it soon becomes clear that British water utilities and regulators are under pressure. Headlines about water leaks, finances, rising bills, and sewage overflows often paint a bleak picture. Overcoming some of these problems by addressing leaks, stopping sewage overflows, and adapting to climate change, while customers face growing bills, requires innovation and lateral thinking.

Fortunately, Marc Hannis, Principal of the Ofwat Innovation Fund, and his team are doing exactly that. By bringing together utilities, innovators, and researchers, the

fund is uncovering some of the new technologies that will lead the UK’s water sector in new directions.

Why Set Up the Ofwat Innovation Fund?

We saw what was going on in other sectors - Ofgem, for example, has an equivalent fund. Given what we knew about water companies, the capacity and appetite for innovation wasn’t strong enough. The £200 million innovation fund was born, to help the sector offer better long-term value for customers, society, and the environment.

Marc Hannis Principal at Ofwat (Innovation Fund)

Launched in 2020, we wanted to accelerate the creation of innovative products, services, and concepts, but follow that up with roll out. Ideas need to translate into wider-scale adoption and produce meaningful change for the sector. We wanted to grow the capability of the sector and embed a culture that values and supports innovation. Innovation will help meet these challenges and we felt the way to attract the very best innovations was to award funding via competitive processes.

The Power of Competition

We designed competitions to encourage water-company-led consortia to bring forward exciting solutions to challenges facing the sector. An independent judging panel assesses the entries, providing recommendations to Ofwat on what to fund based on the quality of those bids and the potential they had to provide real impact.

From the start, we knew we had to work closely with water companies because they were going to implement the innovations. Our main competition, the Water Breakthrough Challenge, was directed at water companies who would lead entries in collaboration with other water companies and innovators, supply chain, academia, environmental organisations, charities and technology specialists.

During that process, we realised there was a gap. The water companies, in many ways, were the gatekeepers of innovation for the sector often using their existing networks and relationships to source potential solutions. It was much harder for those outside the sector to break into water and so, after two years, the Fund introduced a second competition, the Water Discovery Challenge, which invited innovators of all sizes.

This has been a game changing initiative, not only has it awarded funding to new entrants, but it was designed to provide a full package of support to innovators. This included involving water companies as mentors to the innovators, providing business development advice and support e.g. by showing innovators how to develop their business case, how to market themselves and protect their IP.

The package we put together for the Water Discovery Challenge really helps innovators understand how the sector works, develop their own business and provide them with a greater chance of success. We also set up Streamline - an advice service for innovators trying to navigate the complexities of the regulatory landscape in water. Streamline allows innovators to put forward questions and get a response from all three regulators, Ofwat, Drinking Water Inspectorate, and the Environment Agency. We hope to open the next round of the Water Discovery Challenge in January 2026.

Why do water companies need to innovate?

There are a lot of answers to this. Climate is a massive topic we are trying to address through the Fund. If you think about the unpredictability of rainfall, the growing intensity of storms, and the ageing infrastructure, you can understand why the wastewater network is becoming overwhelmed, resulting in sewage discharges. It is a system wide challenge that needs fixing. So, innovation will have a key role in fixing sewage overflow. We have supported sustainable drainage projects, pipebots to identify faults from inside pipes, and AI to monitor whole wastewater catchment areas to hold upstream flows back to use the whole capacity in the system, rather than downstream section becoming overwhelmed.

A really interesting project called Stream, is opening data and standardising it

across the sector. Last year it launched the national map showing discharge data from every sewer overflow in England – the first of its kind in the world – which can now be used by innovators. If we can better understand the information and data that water companies produce, share it openly and consistently, it will enable future solutions.

Energy consumption within the water sector is another huge issue. Water uses about 3% of all electricity in the UK and produces about one-third of the country’s industrial emissions from electricity use and wastewater processing. There are massive opportunities, such as a project that retrofits an existing facility to become the world’s first net zero wastewater treatment plant. That would be a fantastic move forward.

We’re going to have to innovate our way out of this situation. We need to ask: what are the emerging issues

that will impact us many years into the future that we can begin to address now? This is why the Innovation Fund is so important. We need to find the solutions that are effective and viable for the sector and offer value for money for customers. There isn’t any time to waste because we’re losing the climate battle.

Success and the Next Five Years

After five years, we’ve already awarded more than £150 million across about 90 projects, from supporting vulnerable customers to developing training for sustainable drainage systems and tapping into sewer heat as a renewable energy source. Others include river quality analysis and nature-based solutions. The winners of the fifth Water Breakthrough Challenge will be announced in May.

And now, we’re at this five-year point and we’re looking at how we develop things further. For the next five years, the Fund has doubled in size to £400 million, which is hugely significant, on top of which there will be a water efficiency fund offering another £100 million. With that sort of growth in funding budget, how can we expand our horizons? Can we use these next five years to think about implementation? One of the hardest things in innovation is that leap between completing a pilot and turning that into something truly impactful by buying and deploying solutions at scale.

We need to hold the sector more accountable for following through on proven innovations. The onus is on water companies to adopt and scale innovation, but this is a huge task that takes a long time. Water companies know their priorities and their key challenges, but can they envision investing in something which may not provide a return on investment for many years, even when it’s the right thing to do and will be cost effective and support the environment in the long run? This is part of the mindset shift we are trying to support through the Ofwat Innovation Fund and our forthcoming implementation programme.

Some of our innovation projects might take 18-months, while some are four or five years long. You don’t see instant results, they take time, so over the next five years, we need to prove our worth. An average household in the UK pays £1.50 per year to the innovation fund and will want to see it have an impact, particularly when bills are going up quite considerably.

One of our other big tasks for the next five years is to widen our horizons. The water sector is famous for being inward looking, but we can’t afford this anymore. We need to look across sectors and bring the best ideas from the rest of the world. People outside the UK are looking at how the Fund has stimulated innovation and collaboration

and see similar opportunities in their countries. We need to promote what we’re doing in England and Wales because, while you wouldn’t believe it if from the news headlines, the world holds the water sector in England and Wales in high esteem and recognises that we are at the cutting edge in water innovation. What we are working towards is good news for everybody.

Addressing Leakage with Dark Fibres

Just to give context, we know one-fifth of water in the current system is lost to leaks, and we need to reduce this significantly. Most leakage is unseen, whether in the street or in our homes, and trying to figure out where it’s happening is very challenging and expensive. There’s an unbelievable amount of pipe to understand, so we need new ways of identifying those leaks more cheaply and at greater distances.

One winning solution used dark fibre, the unused optical fibre cables left buried by telecommunications companies. These cover a lot of urban areas and, if we can tap into those fibre strands to detect leakage, then that is going to be a fantastic, cost-efficient way of finding leaks. A laser detects noise at intervals and homes in on leaks - it’s so sensitive that it can distinguish between a fox or human walking past. It uses existing infrastructure, which is a double win.

Now, some people think that utilities should be doing this as part of business-as-usual (BAU) - and there is innovation happening outside of the Fund - but the reality is water companies must operate within pretty strict parameters, and this hasn’t encouraged sector-wide collaboration on common issues. I’ve been surprised by what water companies can and can’t do and their hands are often tied. Through the innovation fund, we are loosening those ties and giving them wiggle room to do the out-of-the-box stuff that is becoming essential. Eligible innovations can’t be BAU and have to be transferable and scalable to benefit all water customers across England and Wales.

Knowledge Sharing and Changing the Culture

I’ve talked about how implementation is critical, but I don’t think that’s going to happen without excellent knowledge sharing. We need to ensure that the most compelling business cases for these innovations are shared across the sector to explain why they solve that problem. When entering our competitions, innovators must explain how they are going to share the knowledge and give it the coverage it requires. We’re working with the centre of excellence for innovation in the sector, an organisation called Spring, which has a key function around knowledge transfer. Sharing information makes sense, on all levels, but for water it just hasn’t happened

effectively in the past. Through the Fund, we’re trying to build the momentum, capacity, and appetite among senior leaders to be much more open to sharing information so that the sector, as a collective, can accelerate its efforts to meet the climate and performance challenges it faces. .

I would like to see a big cultural change, especially among the regional water companies, and encourage them to really embrace innovation at every level. If this permeates across a whole organisation, then innovation and new solutions gain traction much more quickly. Instead of firefighting, we can be more proactive with emerging issues like PFAS contaminants, harnessing AI, and nature-based solutions. If we can be on the front foot, that would be brilliant. I’m really heartened that everybody I meet in water companies and the supply chain is in it for the right reasons. It can be a big, churning system that is hard to work around, but everybody I meet wants to make a difference. The sector is much maligned in the press, but I see a community of people all trying to do their absolute best.

In relation to the Innovation Fund, this has manifested through unprecedented levels of collaboration between water companies. There hadn’t been many incentives to share information previously, but the Innovation Fund has changed that. There’s recognition that we’ve got to work together to tackle these problems and cannot do it in silos. It has to be collective, and it has to be strategic. And that’s one of the wonderful things - the Innovation Fund has brought everyone together. I suppose providing 90% of funding is also quite a helpful incentive!

The Global Struggle With Non-Revenue Water

To understand the positive impact Evergloss can have on utilities, it is essential to grasp the enormity of the NRW issue. This invisible culprit accounts for a staggering 25-30% of the water produced globally, with some regions experiencing losses of over 50%.

The consequences are far-reaching and detrimental to utilities and the environment. Not only does NRW strain financial resources, but it also undermines water conservation efforts, especially in water-scarce regions. Cities, towns and communities often find themselves grappling with high costs, decreased service quality and the challenge of maintaining a fair water distribution for all citizens.

The issue is multi-faceted and will not be solved by a single solution or a stand-alone technology. Ageing infrastructure, poor maintenance and technological shortcomings all contribute to the problem. However, one of the most beneficial changes may be providing accurate, real-time data to track and address water losses. Without this data, it is like trying to patch a leak in the dark- an overwhelming task made more complicated by the sheer size and complexity of the water networks!

Identifying The Problem

Evergloss employs a specialised approach to identifying and reducing NRW.

Evergloss’ Holistic Approach to NRW: Locating Leaks, Real Time Tracking And Pipeline Failures

Written By | NATASHA POSNETT

Non-Revenue Water (NRW) remains a significant issue for water utilities worldwide, leading to wasted resources and lost revenue. Measuring and monitoring water use accurately is crucial to reducing these losses, and that’s where Evergloss’ technology comes in. By offering real-time insights, early leak detection and more precise data, our partnership with smart metering providers helps utilities address the key contributors to NRW, providing a more efficient and sustainable solution.

I was lucky enough to talk to Evergloss’ Wendy Teo to learn more about their work and the real-world benefits it provides utilities.

“We focus on locating leakage in pipelines using acoustic emission testing,” explained Wendy.

By using advanced equipment such as acoustic correlating sensors, geophones, free-floating spheres and in-pipeline CCTV and microphones, Evergloss is able to pinpoint leak locations precisely and assess pipeline health.

Evergloss doesn’t just stop at identifying leaks. The team goes deeper by analysing the root causes of pipeline failures, such as pressure issues and pipeline defects.

“Rather than simply addressing the symptoms of leakage, we aim to identify the core issues that contribute to water loss,”

This holistic approach ensures a more sustainable solution rather than just a temporary fix.

Leveraging Technology for Early Detection

Proactive monitoring and early intervention are key to reducing NRW. Evergloss has adopted a series of technologies that enable continuous monitoring and rapid leak detection.

“We install and maintain permanent acoustic leak monitoring sensors and pressure data loggers for utilities and private customers. These sensors continuously monitor pipelines for potential leaks and can pinpoint suspected leak locations in real-time. This real-time monitoring allows us to act quickly and reduce water loss before it becomes a significant problem.”

This approach allows Evergloss to track the progression of leaks over time. By detecting potential problems early, the team can intervene before minor issues escalate into catastrophic failures.

A Case Study In Success

Evergloss’ innovative solutions are not just theoreticalthey’ve seen real-world success in dramatically reducing NRW.

A notable example comes from one of their recent projects in East Asia.

“The project involved a distribution management area that primarily used PVC pipelines and had been struggling with persistent leakage due to pressure surges. The team identified a key issue: the throttling of sluice valves for pressure management was causing transient pressure surges, which led to longitudinal cracks in the pipeline. After understanding the pipeline’s characteristics, we recommended the installation of pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) to manage pressure more effectively. By reducing transient pressure surges, we were able to address the root cause of the cracks. And the installation of hydrophone sensors across the DMA allowed us to locate leaks more accurately.”

The results were incredible. Water loss was reduced from 60% to just 22%, a significant improvement that not only saved water but also conserved resources and reduced operational costs.

The Long-Term Benefits of Reducing NRW

Reducing NRW is not just about immediate financial savings; it has far-reaching benefits for consumers, utilities and the environment. Evergloss’ technology not only ensure a stable

and reliable water supply but also contribute to broader environmental sustainability goals.

“Sustainability is at the core of what we do. Constant leakage drains financial resources and threatens the long-term viability of water utilities. By addressing leaks, utilities can maintain a more consistent water supply, reduce service disruptions and improve water quality. Leaks can also introduce external pollutants into the system, compromising the safety of the water supply, so it is always better to avoid them where possible.”

Furthermore, reducing NRW is essential for conserving global freshwater supplies. With water resources limited, every drop counts.

“Reducing leakage helps conserve vital water resources and also reduces the energy costs associated with pumping and water treatment.”

The Path Forward

Evergloss provides an option, a path forward for important change, for water utilities to reduce their water loss and save money by proactively identifying and addressing pipeline issues with their essential combination of technology, expert knowledge and a commitment to long-term sustainability. In a world where water scarcity is becoming an increasingly critical issue, Evergloss’ approach provides a much-needed solution to one of the most pressing challenges in water management today.

Proven Chopper Pumps

Smart Water Meters: Winning the Battle Against Non-Revenue Water

Written By | MARTYN SHUTTLEWORTH

Against a backdrop of climate change and growing demand, Non-Revenue Water (NRW) is exacerbating water shortages and creating problems for water utilities and governments. Utilities are under intense pressure to reduce NRW, but this is proving difficult across aging networks prone to water leaks, especially with demands to keep customer bills low. One way to reduce the level of NRW is by installing smart meters, which give utilities a greater insight into their systems and help them assess where they are losing water. Smart meters even help customers monitor and reduce their usage, while utilities can lower their operation and maintenance costs significantly.

What is Non-Revenue Water?

While the terms water loss and NRW are often used interchangeably, there are some subtle differences. Strictly speaking, Non-Revenue Water refers to the difference between the amount of water actually pumped, treated, and distributed, against the volume of water billed to customers. There are a number of possible causes:

• Real Losses: Water lost to the network through leakage.

• Unbilled Consumption: The amount of water billed does not match the amount actually used, often due to meter errors.

• Unauthorized Use: Water lost due to theft, fraud, and unauthorised connections.

• Unbilled Authorized Use: Some water is lost due to use in firefighting and utility maintenance such as flushing pipes.

All of these contribute to NRW, leading to higher costs for water distributors and reduced revenue. As a consequence, water distributors have less money to invest in the network and may have to increase customer bills to account for the financial shortfall, with the resulting bad publicity and criticism from regulators.

The level of NRW varies significantly according to region, country, and even utility, with figures of between 30 to 60% in some regions quoted by organisations such as the World Bank. The International Water Association estimates that, globally, 126 billion cubic metres of water is lost every year, which equates to at least $39 billion in lost revenue. While there are many causes and many solutions, from upgrading aging systems to installing sensors, smart meters are now a preferred option for cutting these losses.

What is a Smart Meter?

The traditional mechanical meters used by utilities for decades served their purpose well, but they are simply not accurate enough for modern systems and the need to reduce NRW. For a start, they are not particularly precise and can create mismatches between the amount of water consumed and the final bill. Manually reading water meters can lead to errors, while the long period between readings means that problems may not be picked up for months, and the quality and quantity of data they provide is extremely limited. For this reason, water distributors are phasing out old meters and installing smart meters, which are more precise and provide detailed data that utilities can use to gain accurate and detailed insights into their systems.

Most smart meters include the same core components, with an ultrasonic or electromagnetic sensor measuring water flow, allowing the meter to calculate the amount of water passing through the system. The unit also includes a microcontroller that processes data and sends it to a central monitoring system. Utilities can read meters remotely, using Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and modern communications networks, such as Internet of Things (IoT), Local Area Networks (LAN), or Wide Area Networks (WAN), collecting valuable water usage data from customers and analysing it to gain an overview of conditions.

How Do Smart Meters Help?

The remote readings from smart water meters benefit utilities and consumers by reducing NRW and also through efficiency and better system visibility. Some of the advantages include:

• Better Access to Data: By giving utilities access to abundant water data in real time, utilities can monitor water usage and look for trends and patterns. AMI gives highly granular data that, when integrated with technologies such as GIS, digital twins, and Water Management Systems, provides a very accurate picture of the entire network, even down to the level of individual customers.

• Leak Detection: The accurate data sent by meters gives a real time snapshot of the system, which can help utilities locate leaks and other problems on the system. They can address leaks much more quickly and send crews to exactly the right location, saving time and resources.

• Unauthorised Consumption: Smart meters can help utilities look for unauthorised connections, unmetered water use, and meter tampering.

• Reduced Meter Reading Costs: Traditional meter reading is an expensive undertaking with high labour costs, so removing the need for manual readings saves money.

• Consumer Benefits: Consumers have a better idea of their usage patterns and may implement water saving measures. In addition, many smart meters can highlight unusual patterns and warn customers that they may have leaks on their premises. Some meters can even monitor the temperature of water and warn customers when they are at risk of burst pipes due to frost.

Of course, there are some downsides to the technology. The first of these is the initial cost of installing meters with the associated systems and infrastructure, which can deter many utilities, especially those with restricted access to financial resources. However, the NRW savings over time, and the lower risk of fines from regulators can offset this. Utilities also have to take data protection and the risk of cyberattacks into account, installing robust cybersecurity measures as part of the process. The other problem is resistance from customers who may feel that it is an attempt to increase bills, which needs education and publicity to show the true benefits, such as the ability to conserve water and even lower insurance premiums in some areas.

Reducing NRW in Crete

In Greece, on the rugged island of Crete, the Municipal Water and Sewerage Utility of Heraklion worked with Olympios Group to install smart meters across its network The utility, lacking real time data and with an aging system prone to damage, could not detect leaks quickly, creating higher operational costs and difficulty managing water sustainably. Facing growing demand from increased tourism, the utility, while upgrading its water management system, installed 5,600 smart water meters alongside flow measurement sensors for water pressure and advanced leak detection. By integrating these systems with GIS, the utility gained a real time view of water usage, using this to

Article continued on page 18

manage distribution, detect leaks, and improve maintenance. The new systems promoted better water usage, detected leaks more quickly, and saw significant reductions to NRW and operational costs.

suggesting that the older mechanical meters, as they aged, became less accurate at registering water used by customers.

Changing Consumer Behaviour in the Canary Islands

One interesting study in La Laguna, Tenerife, assessed how smart meters can help customers change their behaviour and water usage when given better information about their water consumption. Using annual consumption data from over 50,000 households, covering the previous ten years, the researchers analysed the differences in water use with smart meters and systems that allowed customers to access daily water consumption through a portal. The study showed that the smart metering technology encouraged households to reduce their water usage by an average of 2%. Importantly, the meters increased the accuracy of water usage measured,

Smart Meters: Here to Stay

Overall, smart meter technology, despite the high initial costs, offers several benefits to water utilities. They support real time monitoring and management of water, helping to optimize distribution and reliability. Smart meters can see a significant reduction in leakages and NRW, while lowering operational costs and helping customers change their water usage patterns. The technology benefits consumers, utilities, and the environment, reducing the pressure on scarce resources.

How Kemio’s Digital Platform Supports Utilities in Tackling Non-Revenue Water

Written By | DARBY BONNER

Every day, a staggering 3 billion litres of water are lost to leaks in the UK’s underground pipe network. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a pressing environmental and economic issue that demands action.

Water testing serves as a powerful tool in tackling non-revenue water, uncovering system weaknesses, identifying leaks, and highlighting infrastructure issues such as corrosion. Parameters like chlorine are specifically tested to determine whether the water source is drawn from the distribution system. These insights are instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency, curbing waste, and advancing sustainable water management practices.

Water testing is equally essential following pipe repairs. Chlorine testing ensures proper disinfection, while turbidity testing detects sediment intrusion or contaminants. Traditional testing methods, however, often falter in muddy conditions, leading to unreliable outcomes. Palintest’s revolutionary Kemio technology overcomes these hurdles, delivering remarkable accuracy and speed, setting a new standard for safeguarding water quality and driving sustainability forward.

The Science Behind the Solution

At its core, Kemio is a marvel of electrochemical engineering. Unlike traditional colorimetric methods that rely on visual colour changes, this innovative platform uses patented single-use sensors that detect minute electrical current changes caused by chemical reactions in water samples.

“It’s remarkably simple,” explains Shaurya Sheoran, Head of Product Management at Palintest. “Users simply insert a sensor into the instrument, and within a minute, they receive precise readings for both free and total chlorine.” The technology’s secret lies in its screen-printed carbon sensors, featuring a sophisticated three-electrode system that ensures unprecedented accuracy.

Beyond Traditional Methods

Kemio isn’t just another testing tool—it’s a comprehensive water analysis platform. Its capabilities extend far beyond chlorine detection:

• Testing for disinfectants including bromine, chlorine dioxide, and peracetic acid

• Detecting heavy metals like lead, copper, and arsenic at parts-per-billion levels

• Providing reliable results in challenging environmental conditions

While technologies like acoustic testing and thermal imaging have their place, Kemio offers a critical complementary approach. “In just 60 seconds, we can confirm the presence of chlorine and help quickly screen if water sample is from the distribution system” the team notes. This rapid testing creates operational advantages that were unthinkable just years ago.

The Future of Water Management

The digital transformation of water utilities is accelerating. Palintest is at the forefront, developing technologies that promise to revolutionise how we monitor and manage water networks:

• GPS-enabled instruments for precise quality monitoring

• Cloud connectivity for real-time data collection

• AI and machine learning for predictive analysis

• Advanced data visualisation tools

“Remote monitoring will become the norm,” they predict. “We’re moving towards a future where real-time data collection and swift issue resolution are standard.”

Sustainability at the Core

The implications extend far beyond technological innovation. These advances promise:

• More efficient water usage

• Identification of aging infrastructure

• Optimised chemical usage

• Reduced energy consumption

In a world facing increasing water scarcity, these developments aren’t just impressive—they’re essential.

A Future to Protect

Perhaps most remarkably, Kemio distills complex water analysis into a 60-second process. Where traditional methods might take hours and provide unreliable results, this technology offers instant, precise insights.

As water utilities face growing challenges—from aging infrastructure to climate change—innovations like Kemio represent more than just technological progress. They’re a lifeline for our most precious resource.

“We’re not just detecting water quality—we’re safeguarding our future, for everyone, every day.”Shaurya Sheoran.

From Real-Time Data to Actionable Insights and Asset Planning:

Specific Energy’s Analytics are Helping Water Utilities Make Smarter Decisions

Written By | DARBY BONNER

The story of Specific Energy starts with a curious, forward-thinking question. In 2010, a water utility manager in Central Texas made a phone call that would change everything. The conversation was straightforward“what’s the best speed to run our pumps?”

For Perry Steger of Steger Bizzell Engineering, this seemingly generic inquiry revealed a massive technological gap. As he searched for a solution, Steger was stunned to find no comprehensive solution existed. Spreadsheets wouldn’t suffice. Utility operators were essentially navigating complex water systems without a reliable, real-time navigation tool. “He believed operators deserved better,” the Specific Energy team recalls. What followed was a deliberate assembly of engineers and computer scientists united by a singular mission - to

revolutionise water utility operations via intelligent analytics.

Using the Human Body as a Technological Metaphor

Specific Energy has developed a uniquely compelling way of understanding water infrastructure - viewing it as a living, breathing system. “Most water systems rely on pumps to pressurise distribution systems in the same way that your heart pressurises your circulatory system,” they explain. But unlike the human body’s incredibly sophisticated self-regulation, water utilities have historically operated with far less precision. Specific Energy’s approach is revolutionary. Pumps are the “hearts,” pipes are the “veins,” and their Digital Pump Optimizer (DPO) acts as the sophisticated brain, continuously analysing and optimising complex hydraulic systems.

Transformative Analytics in Action

The real-world impact of their technology is nothing short of remarkable. In a Tennessee implementation, their analytics didn’t just marginally improve operations - they transformed them entirely, and the results were impressive:

• 42% reduction in energy consumption

• Reduced disinfection byproducts

• Optimised distribution system operations

At Chattanooga’s Citico Pump Station, Specific Energy’s predictive capabilities uncovered critical insights that would have gone unnoticed with traditional monitoring. Specific Energy’s system detected pumps lost 16% of their capacity due to wear and an additional 43% capacity loss from chronic plugging.

But detection was just the beginning. Specific Energy’s platform doesn’t just identify problems, it provides comprehensive solutions, including detailed ROI calculations for recommended pump repairs.

Predictive Intelligence

Specific Energy’s Digital Pump Optimizer represents a quantum leap in utility management. It transforms complex hydraulic data into intuitive, actionable insights. “Much like a car’s dashboard summarises complex information into easily understood graphics.” the team explains, the system solves intricate hydraulic equations in real-time. Operators now receive immediate text message alerts when pump performance deviates from expected parameters. This allows for proactive intervention, preventing potential system failures before they occur.

Jacob McCrary, Director of Operations at City of Chattanooga, clearly captured the system’s value: “Specific Energy reports are so easy to digest. I can share them with my administrator or the mayor and they can see and understand the improvements instantly.”

Energy Efficiency

The energy savings achieved through Specific Energy’s intelligent control units are impressive. Their first pump station in Central Texas continues to demonstrate the long-term potential:

• 28% reduction in annual energy consumption while maintaining station capacity

• Minimise equipment wear over years of operation

At Chattanooga’s Citico Station, Specific Energy revolutionised pump sequencing:

• 9.6% energy savings

• Remarkably short-4 month payback period for DPO

• Developed high-quality control using physics-based algorithms to optimise pump speeds based on real-time demand

Scaling Solutions for Expanding Communities

For rapidly expanding utilities like Mustang SUD (Special Utility District) in North Texas, Specific Energy’s technology is transformative. With the utility experiencing nearly 20% annual population growth year on year and expansion from 8 to 42 lift stations over the course of a decade. Their Specific Energy Lift Station Guardian (LSG) system has been crucial, delivering 11% reduction in field visits (with projections up to 30%), automated maintenance modules, and $570K in annual operation cost savings.

A Philosophical Approach to Infrastructure

At its heart, Specific Energy’s mission transcends technological innovation. They are driven by a fundamental belief - “Safe drinking water supplies and reliable wastewater treatment are absolutely essential to society.”

This philosophy manifests in their commitment to empowering utility professionals. By taking the guesswork out of pump operations, they enable operators and management to focus on delivering clean, reliable water service to their communities.

What Can We Learn?

The current industrial standard has been reactive - run equipment until it fails, and then fix it. Specific Energy is pioneering a proactive approach. Their monthly pump reports include detailed ROI calculations, allowing utilities to make data-driven decisions about capital development. As Drew Molly from the City of Houston mentioned, these reports provide concrete justification for necessary repairs, transforming maintenance from a cost centre to a strategic investment.

Reimagining What’s Possible

In a world of increasing environmental challenges and infrastructure stress, Specific Energy represents more than a technology company - they are architects of a more intelligent, sustainable approach to water management. By combining advanced analytics, predictive intelligence, and a deep respect for the critical work of utility professionals, they are not just optimising systems, but they are reimagining the very infrastructure that sustains our communities.

“We believe water utility operators deserve better tools to tackle today’s challenges. Our mission is to transform complex data into actionable insights that protect our most crucial infrastructure.” - Specific Energy Team

National Leakage Research and Test Centre (NLRTC)

Written By | MARTYN SHUTTLEWORTH

In the UK, water leaks are a growing problem, so the sector is throwing a lot of time and resources at the problem. Utilities and researchers are developing a raft of innovative solutions, but the lack of testing facilities creates a bottleneck. It is difficult to prove a new technology works without a pilot study on a water network, but testing on a water network is difficult without proving that the technology is safe and won’t affect customers. To overcome this barrier, the planned National Leakage Research and Test Centre (NLRTC) will give

innovators, researchers, and utilities a place to test and pilot new technologies. We talked with Andrew Ball, Technical Director of HR Wallingford, about the new facility.

Could you give some background about yourself and HR Wallingford?

I started my career as a hydrogeologist in the UK before moving overseas, working in Australia, Pakistan, Africa, and Mongolia. After that, I became a water resources manager for Southern Water, developing leakage reduction strategies, water efficiency programmes, and the

company’s demand forecast. Subsequently, I worked as a consultant and at South East Water as Head of Asset Management, before joining HR Wallingford six years ago. My focus is helping water companies develop water resource management strategies, including leakage plans.

HR Wallingford designs smart, resilient solutions across the natural and built environments to help everyone live and work more sustainably with water. The independent, not-for-profit company has extensive experience in water resource management, including leakage and water networks, and of running laboratories used for innovation and investigation.

Why is water leakage such a problem in the UK?

Water leakage is a particular problem in the UK because of the age of its infrastructure and the risk of water scarcity. Currently, 20% of potable water is lost in the UK through distribution networks because of leaks in old pipework, which are difficult and expensive to detect and mend. Climate change is likely to result in more severe and more frequent droughts in the UK, causing pipes to crack. Meanwhile, the population is growing, and the government and water companies are working together to improve the environment by abstracting less water. Reducing leakage is a key part of this strategy.

Why is a new national leakage centre needed?

One of the ways that the UK can make sure it has enough potable water is to ensure that our water network is resilient. The UK government has, therefore, asked water companies to reduce leakage by 50% over the next 25 years. The centre is needed because leakage is an expensive and complex issue to solve. Leakage is expensive because companies currently usually have to dig holes to mend pipes, and finding leaks in the first place is also expensive because of network complexity and the difficulty of detection. When leaks occur on roads or in homes, customers notice and report them. They can be inconvenient and expensive to mend but at least they are easy to find. However, most leaks in the UK aren’t visible because water is simply disappearing under the ground’s surface.

Companies are, of course, already trying to prevent leakage. Our new Sim-On software, for example, can be used to monitor networks and find whereabouts in the network leaks are occurring. Leaks can also be pinpointed using acoustic approaches, which use listening techniques to hear water leaking out of the system. The centre will allow innovators to try out new solutions, such as new acoustic techniques and robots, within a large pipe

environment, and provide them with certification to say their innovations are safe to use in the real water network.

Why is Wallingford the perfect location?

HR Wallingford owns and runs Howbery Business Park in Oxfordshire. On the site, we have our headquarters, where most of our water resource experts are based, along with the largest and most modern laboratories in Europe. The business park has plenty of space to accommodate other innovators with a range of offices on the site – we already have around 50 companies based on site, many of which have an environmental or water focus.

What facilities will the centre have?

The NLRTC will consist of an offline District Metered Area (DMA) and a smaller test rig, known as a sandpit, both of which will be constructed on HR Wallingford’s business park and neighbouring fields in Oxfordshire. The DMA will provide a large, secure environment that replicates a real underground water network. It will essentially be an entire water network, just without the houses, but including water treatment works, pumps, valves, and different types of pipe material. It will comprise a fully scaled, 5km-long, buried water pipeline, with multiple sub-metered areas, leakage simulation bunkers, and a control room enabling automated control capabilities. The pipeline will be buried under two fields next to Howbery Park, leased to the NLRTC, while the pumping facilities and management centre will be housed on the Howbery Park site.

The sandpit, which will be set up in HR Wallingford’s largest laboratory, the Froude Modelling Hall, will allow water companies and innovators to try out new technology before testing it in the offline DMA area. Once built, the centre will be operated by a partnership between HR Wallingford and Northumbrian Water, with support from WRc and financed for the first three years by the Ofwat Innovation Fund. Three people will be employed to run the centre.

What new technologies will the centre test?

The facility will be used by innovators, water companies, design stakeholders, technology suppliers, researchers, and academics to experiment and accelerate novel leakage solutions. It will provide a place to trial and certify technologies, enabling innovators to prove that their inventions work and can be safely deployed in the real water network.

At the moment, some of universities are developing pipe bots. These little robots might have acoustic sensors to listen for holes in pipes; ultrasonic sensors to check pipe thickness; cameras and lights; and Wi-Fi to report back to the operator. Developers will be able to test that their innovations work and that they don’t cause any issues when deployed, such as blocking valves.

Another solution that is under development is coating pipes with resin to repair them. If successful, in the future water companies would be able to deploy a pipe bot to apply resin instead of having to dig up the road to repair pipes. Other techniques that we might see are AI and the development of new sensors, such as pressure loggers. Plus, the centre will give researchers the opportunity to try and understand why pipes burst in the first place.

Are there any interesting plans for the future?

The partners are aiming to submit a full planning application for the DMA shortly and anticipate that construction will start later this year. Construction is expected to take around nine months, and the team has had initial talks with specialist contractors who could undertake the work. HR Wallingford intends to run the facility beyond the initial period of three years. We see this initial phase as the start of a longer-term development plan. Given the space that we have, we will be able to continue to develop the NLRTC in the future, for example, by extending the network, or installing different sorts of pipes. Finally, even though this is a UK initiative, the centre will be open to people from other countries. Leakage isn’t just a problem for the UK – we know many other countries are having similar issues too.

How Can India Reduce Water Loss?

Written By | MARTYN SHUTTLEWORTH

Across India, a country particularly affected by climate change and growing demand for water, reducing water loss is crucial. Everyone knows it is a problem and everyone wants to solve it, but this needs planning, finance, and new technologies. With an extensive experience of planning, designing, and implementing non-revenue water (NRW) reduction strategies across India, Naveen Kumar understands the issues. Here, he discusses India’s water loss problem and highlights the technologies and policies that will shape the country’s approach.

The Impacts on India’s Water Sector

India’s high NRW levels mean its water utilities lose revenue while facing higher operational costs and energy usage, limiting their ability to invest in infrastructure upgrades and service improvements. As Naveen notes:

“Water loss varies between 30% and 60% in urban areas,

leading to financial strain on utilities, reduced water availability, and increased operational costs, while high leakage levels create intermittent water supply for consumers and industries. The main causes are aging pipelines, unauthorized connections, meter inaccuracies, leaks, and inefficient distribution systems.”

Because the pressures on water resources are growing, India has already taken some action to rectify the issue.

How India is Tackling Water Loss

One way in which India is addressing water loss is through technology, including smart metering, automated billing, and systems to improve real-time monitoring. Naveen observed many other initiatives, including “acoustic and satellite-based leak detection technologies and pressure management through creating District Metered Areas (DMAs) to regulate supply.” Policy is also crucial, and India has implemented NRW reduction programs at national and state levels, alongside water audits, performance-based utility contracts, and regulatory frameworks to monitor unauthorized water usage.

Naveen Kumar Water & Sewerage Design Expert

Naveen has seen effective educational programs including “capacity-building initiatives for utility staff on best practices in NRW management, awareness campaigns to engage communities in reporting leaks and illegal connections, and training programs on water conservation techniques and efficient infrastructure maintenance.” Although India is starting to address its chronic water loss problems, there are still a number of barriers to overcome.

The main challenge is deteriorating water infrastructure because many cities rely upon old pipelines prone to leaks and bursts. Naveen believes that the problems run deeper, because “utilities often lack the necessary financial resources to invest in NRW reduction projects. There are technical gaps, with limited expertise and data availability making it difficult to promote effective water loss management.”

Other problems are conservatism across the water sector, a lack of accountability, and weak enforcement of regulations covering unauthorized water usage.

What are the Solutions?

If India is to reduce water loss, it needs to become more open to new technologies and overcome its institutional and political inertia. Naveen’s recommendations for upgrades include “AI and Machine Learning to predict leaks and optimize water distribution, and Digital Twin Models to help utilities improve operational efficiency. IoT-based sensors will provide real-time data on water quality and distribution network performance.”

Of course, technology cannot solve the problem on its own and Naveen wants better policies, including NRW reduction targets offering financial incentives to utilities. He also sees the potential of Public-Private Partnerships to encourage better resource management, and reforms to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability in water utilities. He also believes that “NRW reduction should also be a key component of water conservation and climate resilience strategies.”

These changes, especially in a notoriously conservative sector, take time and will need a realistic roadmap for implementation.

The Plan of Action

Due to the sheer scale of the problem, Naveen advocates a phased approach. Short-term actions include water audits, improved meter accuracy, and fixing visible leaks, while the medium term will include DMA-based monitoring, pressure management, and network rehabilitation. Longer term actions include smart water management technologies, policy reforms, and engaging with stakeholders for sustainable water governance.

Naveen is also a believer in community support, pointing out that public involvement can “encourage consumers to report leaks and illegal connections and promote

responsible water use through awareness campaigns. It is important to engage local communities in monitoring NRW through digital platforms, and we can introduce incentive programs for consumers and businesses adopting water-saving practices.”

In addition, many Indian utilities will need sustainable financing, whether through government grants, private sector investment, and utility revenues. Naveen adds that “performance-based contracts with private firms ensure accountability and result-oriented NRW reduction, while tariff reforms can incentivize efficient water use.”

Climate and Sustainability

Many of the water sector’s programs and goals overlap with other areas, so NRW reduction can help India achieve its sustainability, health, and climate goals, while preserving this precious resource for everyone. As Naveen states:

“NRW reduction directly contributes to water conservation, ensuring long-term availability of freshwater resources, and requires lower energy consumption for pumping and treatment. Reducing leakages minimizes contamination risks, ensuring safer water for consumers. Smart water management aligns with climate adaptation strategies and makes cities more resilient to water stress. Reducing NRW optimizes resource use, improves service efficiency, ensures equitable distribution, and provides long-term water security.”

While there is work to do, in India and everywhere else, governments and utilities are taking NRW seriously and are starting to address the problem.

Fracta Partnership: Changing How The Water Industry Mitigates Water Loss With Integrated Digital Solutions

Written By | NATASHA POSNETT

Addressing non-revenue water (NRW) is a challenge for water utilities globally. They all want the same outcome, to reduce water loss and achieve greater operational efficiency, but they need to successfully utilise all the technology available to get there. There is not a one solution answer that works for everyone, so bespoke combinations get the best outcomes.

We talked with Bill Weymouth, Director of Sales and Marketing at Fracta, a Kurita subsidiary. Fracta’s work actively addresses NRW with their integrated digital solutions. A digital transformation, including artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, offers an effective strategy to mitigate NRW.

How does Kurita’s partnership with Fracta help to address non-revenue water?

The 2023 acquisition of Fracta by Kurita Water Industries marked a strategic move to address one of the water industry’s greatest challenges: aging infrastructure and its role in NRW. Combining Kurita’s global expertise in water treatment solutions with Fracta’s cutting-edge AI and machine learning (ML) technologies created a partnership that is revolutionising how the water industry manages and mitigates water loss.

With a shared mission to enhance efficiency, sustainability and resilience in water systems, Kurita and Fracta provide municipalities and industrial water utilities with predictive analytics and data-driven decision-making tools to combat NRW. Given the growing scarcity of

potable water and increasing regulatory pressures, utilities must embrace innovative approaches to optimise operations, reduce waste and ensure long-term infrastructure sustainability.

What are some of the biggest challenges companies face with non-revenue water and how can Kurita help?

According to the American Society of Civil Engineer’s 2021 Infrastructure Report Card, the United States loses an estimated 6 billion gallons of treated water daily, translating into billions of dollars in lost revenue and negative environmental impact. According to the same study, much of the 2.2 million miles of buried pipes in the United States were laid decades ago and are at an increased risk of breaking. These pipes, mostly constructed of deteriorating cast iron and asbestos cement, directly contribute to the 27% increase in water main breaks experienced over the last six years.

Unfortunately, many utilities still rely on reactive maintenance rather than proactive, data-driven infrastructure management. Incomplete and outdated records on pipe conditions, materials of construction and failure history hinder effective decision making. Limited financial resources often force utilities to postpone necessary infrastructure upgrades, worsening the NRW issue. The implementation of modern technological solutions aimed at preventing unnecessary water loss can help utilities address the mounting challenge of NRW.

Fracta’s AI-powered infrastructure assessment platform is a game changer for utilities struggling with NRW. By leveraging advanced machine learning models, Fracta provides highly accurate, predictive insights into which pipes are most at risk of failure. A clearer understanding of system health enables utilities to prioritize repairs and replacements efficiently, better utilising limited budgets.

Fracta’s platform centres around four key technologies that provide utilities with a clear picture of their system’s health and a roadmap for improvement:

• Likelihood of Failure (LOF) Model: Fracta’s proprietary ML model evaluates historical pipe data alongside more than 120 environmental and geographical inputs.

• Consequence of Failure (COF) Analysis: Integrating COF into risk assessments allows utilities to not only predict failure but also assess the financial and operational impacts of different failure scenarios.

• Total Risk (TR) Assessment: By combining LOF and COF, Fracta’s TR model provides a comprehensive view of overall infrastructure vulnerability, showing where resources should be focused and allowing better capital planning.

• Job Planner: Fracta’s Job Planner helps managers streamline maintenance schedules, plan replacement projects, and update CIP plans, ensuring the most critical areas are targeted to maximise budget allocation.

Fracta’s AI capabilities and Kurita’s full suite of water treatment and infrastructure maintenance solutions create a partnership aimed at solving NRW. Kurita’s holistic approach ensures that utilities not only detect and predict failures but also implement preventive measures to extend asset lifespans and improve water quality.

As water scarcity concerns continue to rise, utilities must embrace next-generation solutions that combine data science, AI and smart water technologies to safeguard this critical resource. Kurita and Fracta are at the forefront of this transformation, empowering water utilities to build resilient, cost-effective and sustainable water distribution networks.

Water conservation is becoming increasingly urgent. How does reducing NRW contribute to broader environmental sustainability efforts?

Clean water is foundational to the basic needs of life, yet its availability is becoming increasingly uncertain. Increased demand from population growth and waste due to aging infrastructure means that effective water conservation strategies have never been more critical. One of the most significant and overlooked contributors to wasted water resources is non-revenue water due to leaks, theft or system inefficiencies.

The struggle to maintain the aging water infrastructure is leading to billions of gallons of potable water being lost every day. Solving the NRW issue is not just about saving money, it’s about safeguarding a critical natural resource, while reducing energy consumption and limiting negative environmental impacts. Excessive extraction from natural bodies of water to replace NRW disrupts aquatic ecosystems. Many of the United States’s bodies of water are overburdened due to urbanization, industrial use, and agricultural demand. Minimizing wasted water through addressing NRW means utilities can help maintain stable water levels, protecting natural ecosystems.

According to the EPA, treating and distributing water is an energy-intensive process, accounting for approximately 4% of the United States’s overall energy consumption. Losing treated water through leaks or line breaks means that all this energy is wasted. Frequent breaks caused by aging pipes place enormous stress on water infrastructure, causing excessive wear on pumps and treatment facilities. Reducing NRW allows utilities to significantly cut energy use and costly repairs, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Leaking pipes not only lose water but also allow contaminants to enter the water supply. Cracked or corroded pipes can introduce bacteria, chemicals, and other harmful substances into water that can pose health risks to communities. Using Fracta’s predictive analytics allows utilities to perform targeted, proactive maintenance to ensure safer, cleaner water.

As utilities and industries strive to become more sustainable, addressing non-revenue water must be a priority. Reducing NRW conserves valuable freshwater, reduces energy use and emissions, protects ecosystems and ensures long-term infrastructure resilience. With AI-driven predictive analytics from Fracta, utilities can make data-informed decisions that not only save water but also drive cost efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Can you share

a

success stories where Kurita’s involvement has significantly reduced NRW and improved water efficiency?

THE UTILITY

The Greater Johnstown Water Authority (GJWA) in Pennsylvania serves a base of more than 21,000 customers through 303 miles of water distribution pipes. The average consumption is approximately 6.5 million gallons per day (MGD) with peak consumption in the summer at 10 MGD. It operates three dams, two wells, a water treatment plant at Riverside, a water treatment plant at the Saltlick Reservoir and numerous storage tanks and pump stations.

THE CHALLENGE

Reducing Non-Revenue (NRW) water loss is challenging since it is not apparent exactly where it is happening within the network, or what could be causing it. While pumping stations can signal when water loss may be happening

location of that loss is not known. Sending a crew out to hunt for the source of loss can be time-consuming, costly and often inconclusive. Over time, leaks can become breaks which present an even greater risk to community safety and business operations.

THE SOLUTION

When GJWA’s pumping station signals a potential water main leak, Fracta’s platform can be used to search across the distribution network and discover which pipe segments are most likely contributing to the NRW loss. Fracta’s machine learning algorithms evaluate each pipe segment and its physical attributes against more than one thousand spatially explicit environmental variables. Over time, the model ‘learns’ by evaluating historic break events across the millions of combinations of environmental variables present at each segment.

Once the faulty segments have been identified, teams can be deployed to the field with a correlator to find leaks in pressurised water. Acoustic technology is then used to validate the area of leakage before sending a team to dig up the pipe.

THE IMPACT

Within the first seven to eight months, GJWA relied on Fracta’s Likelihood of Failure (LOF) maps to correctly identify 75% of the leaks in 15 pipe segments, saving the utility 20% in NRW loss.

Looking ahead, Greater Johnstown has committed to assigning a dedicated resource to use Fracta along with other tools to target pipes for replacement and repair. In addition to the Likelihood of Failure (LOF), Greater Johnstown plans to use Fracta’s additional features –Consequence of Failure (COF), Business Risk Exposure (BRE) and Job Planner – to better understand its network of assets and take a more proactive approach to maintenance management moving forward.

Expert Views on Water Loss and Non-Revenue Water

Our specialists share their insights and highlight what we are overlooking, what the water industry needs to do, and some of the new technologies that could help.

Thomas Grand

What do you consider the most overlooked aspect of non-revenue water management that utilities should pay more attention to?

One of the most overlooked aspects of non-revenue water (NRW) management is the integration of field-checked asset data. Many utilities rely on outdated technical information that fails to reflect the current status of their infrastructure. This results in missed opportunities for identification of leaks or inefficiencies.

By adopting solutions that help update and reflect the true condition of assets, utilities can gain a more accurate and dynamic understanding of their network. This can significantly optimise asset investment planning, improving both financial sustainability and resource management.

In your experience, what’s the most cost-effective intervention for reducing apparent losses in developing utilities?

For developing utilities, the most cost-effective intervention is the implementation of digital twin technology focused on asset management. Many utilities focus on real time monitoring, and fail to properly manage physical asset data, often relying on outdated and incomplete records of their infrastructure.

By rapidly creating digital replicas of their assets thanks to 3D imaging and automated AI processing, water companies can have a continuous, up-to-date visualisation of their actual network. This Shared Reality solution is cost-effective because it delivers results and value quickly, optimising the investment and procurement cycle around network projects.

What role do you see AI and machine learning playing in the future of water loss management?

AI and machine learning are already revolutionising water loss management by offering quick validation capabilities and enhanced decision-making. These technologies can analyse large volumes of data in short periods of time, helping to identify discrepancies that may be unmanageable with a fully manual approach. Combined with web streaming, distributed teams of different disciplines can quickly come up with remediation or modification plans.

What’s more, with 3D imaging now accessible to everyone thanks to smartphones and tablets, it’s much easier to distribute continuous surveying work to the teams already on the ground. Not just to build, but also to maintain an accurate daily view of the infrastructure, above and below ground, improving efficiency and sustainability.

Uri Gutermann

Gutermann WATER CEO

What do you consider the most overlooked aspect of non-revenue water management that utilities should pay more attention to?

Human Resources. There is a generational shift happening with mostly older, highly skilled and experienced but conservative and technology-averse professionals retiring. The new generation has significantly less experience and technical skills but is willing to adopt new technology in search of efficient water utility management. That combined with a real lack of talent in our industry will make technology a key aspect in future water utility operations. Artificial Intelligence is just one aspect that will have a big impact.

How has technology changed your approach to leak detection and pressure management in the last five years?

We have been a driver of technological advancements in our industry. We have pioneered fully automated systems, IoT communication, cloud services with significant analytics and artificial intelligence. We have a strong focus on R&D and believe that this is one of our key success factors.

What role do you see AI and machine learning playing in the future of water loss management?

We see a big role for AI. However, users have to be clear about the fact that AI can only deliver expected results, if a large amount of qualified data is used to train a machine learning tool. Start-ups without long-term data collection and strong customer relationships will have a hard time to deliver solutions that have an impact.

What’s your approach to prioritizing different NRW reduction strategies when working with utilities that have limited resources?

We offer utilities very flexible technology financing models, such as rental or pay-for-data models, but we are also exploring performance-based remuneration models and industry cooperation. Utilities are increasingly demanding turnkey solutions from us vendors.

What’s the most successful NRW reduction project you’ve been involved with, and what made it work?

Our mass sensor deployment with Acquedotto Pugliese in Southern Italy has been the largest project to date. Its success is derived from clear customer requirements, priorities and commitment, as well as from the strong support from us and our local partners in the deployment and maintenance of the project. Our customers’ success will be ours, and that is the long-term significant reduction of leakage rates at AQP.

Alyssa KELLY STUART Rudick

Foresight Canada

Water

Innovation Advisors Director, Research Chief Water Steward

How do you balance the need for immediate NRW reductions with long-term infrastructure sustainability?

Utilities can take a phased approach to NRW reduction and long-term infrastructure sustainability. Starting with interventions that don’t require major capital investments is a solid approach. Technologies like leak detection sensors, smart pressure management, or data analytics are effective in reducing losses quickly. After this, a scaled approach to physical infrastructure repair can help manage NRW within budget, such as risk-based infrastructure replacement and exploring trenchless technology to reduce construction costs.

In the mid-to-long term, plan with sustainability in mind, including financial sustainability. AI and machine learning-powered predictive maintenance and digital twins proactively manage NRW long term. During upgrade planning, prioritize innovations that extend infrastructure lifespan and evaluate life cycle costs. The full suite of technologies to support utilities’ needs is extensive, but often unknown or misunderstood. Technology and innovation help the bottom line and are excellent for utilities to navigate asset management in the face of aging infrastructure.

How do you convince utility management to invest in NRW reduction programs when they’re facing competing priorities?

To convince utility management to invest in NRW reduction, highlight the long-term financial benefits alongside the environmental impact. Our research shows that reducing water loss through advanced technologies can save utilities thousands of dollars by cutting operational costs and improving system efficiency, with returns in months—this is just by reducing water loss. Addressing NRW also leads to more reliable service, reduced maintenance, damage and emergency repair costs, and better customer satisfaction. While competing priorities exist, investing in NRW reduction is a strategic move that pays dividends over time in cost savings and sustainable resource management. This is a smart, long-term investment that aligns with both financial and environmental goals.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about nonrevenue water management?

The biggest misconception about NRW management is that it’s a reactive strategy—finding and repairing leaks. It’s more complex, and technologies address all facets of the issue. Metering challenges and data errors influence apparent losses. Pressure management can increase leak severity, and slow response times drive NRW costs up. Digital solutions integrated with SCADA systems enhance leak detection. Advanced metering systems and AI-driven analytics detect anomalies faster and more accurately. Ultimately, predictive maintenance, digital twins, predictive analytics, and advanced asset management help utilities proactively manage NRW by predicting and preventing issues. Effective NRW management should be both proactive and reactive. Despite the upfront investment, utilities will find long-term financial benefits.

What do you consider the most overlooked aspect of non-revenue water management that utilities should pay more attention to?

There are three key areas of NRW that are overlooked.

Inaccuracies in water metering create significant revenue losses to Utilies. Aging and malfunctioning meters under-record consumption, resulting in losses that reduce revenue.

Illegal connections and unauthorized water use contribute substantially to NRW and lost revenue.

The embedded energy cost for generating and transporting NRW is a key area to address to improve profitability.

How has technology changed your approach to leak detection and pressure management in the last five years?

Smart water meters integration of sensors for pressure and acoustic monitoring has enhanced leak detection capabilities. Also, the advance of data analytics enables utilities to predict potential leaks and optimize pressure management, enhancing their efficiency.

In your experience, what’s the most cost-effective intervention for reducing apparent losses in developing utilities?

Accurate and select, valuable data that directly sees the source of water loss and can address it promptly.

What role do you see AI and machine learning playing in the future of water loss management?

AI and ML will play a key and valuable role in NRW improvement. Firstly, predictive maintenance will analyze data to forecast equipment failures and schedule consistent maintenance. Anomaly detection will use ML to get smarter in identifying irregular water usage patterns that indicate leaks or unauthorized water consumption. AI demand forecasting will predict water demand to optimize supply, energy usage and reduce water losses.

What’s the most successful NRW reduction project you’ve been involved with, and what made it work?

Subeca’s smart water meter using LORAN, low cost technology. Partnering with AWS sidewalk is a brilliant strategy.

Adolfo Torcello MARCO Westergren

Aganova Info tiles

Key Account Manager Chief Analytics Officer

What do you consider the most overlooked aspect of non-revenue water management that utilities should pay more attention to?

One of the most overlooked aspects is the accurate assessment of pipeline conditions. Utilities often focus on leak detection but neglect evaluating the structural integrity of pipes. Understanding whether a pipeline is prone to future failures allows for proactive asset management, reducing emergency repairs and extending infrastructure lifespan. Technologies like Nautilus provide both leak detection and pipeline condition assessment in a single inspection, enabling utilities to prioritize investments more effectively.

How has technology changed your approach to leak detection and pressure management in the last five years?

Advancements in acoustic sensor technology and AI-driven analytics have significantly improved leak detection precision. Unlike traditional methods that rely on surface listening devices, in-pipe solutions like Nautilus use free-swimming acoustic sensors to detect leaks with high accuracy, even in largediameter pipelines. These innovations allow utilities to reduce water loss faster while optimizing pressure management strategies based on real-time data.

What role do you see AI and machine learning playing in the future of water loss management?

AI and machine learning will revolutionize water loss management by enhancing predictive analytics and automating decision-making. By analyzing historical and real-time data, AI can predict potential failure points and recommend optimal intervention strategies. When combined with advanced leak detection systems like Nautilus, AI-driven insights can help utilities shift from reactive to preventive maintenance, improving efficiency and reducing NRW sustainably.

What do you consider the most overlooked aspect of non-revenue water management that utilities should pay more attention to?

One key challenge is data management. Utilities often use multiple systems, e.g. GIS for asset mapping, SCADA for tracking non-revenue water, work order systems, and field equipment like acoustic loggers, each managed separately with different naming conventions and data structures. This fragmentation makes it difficult to correlate insights and drive long-term improvements. Centralising data and efforts can unlock hidden inefficiencies and even highlight past data gaps that need addressing.

In your experience, what’s the most cost-effective intervention for reducing apparent losses in developing utilities?

Investing in new technology is appealing, but hardware and deployment costs, especially for wireless and battery-powered devices, can add up quickly. Our philosophy has been to work from what exists, is the data quality where you need it? Many utilities already have valuable information in place but aren’t fully utilising it. A thorough upfront analysis of available data can help identify gaps, optimise current processes, and set clear priorities for future investments. This build-on-rather-than-replace approach ensures that new technologies enhance, rather than duplicate, existing efforts.

What role do you see AI and machine learning playing in the future of water loss management?

AI and machine learning hold huge potential for water loss management, but their effectiveness depends entirely on data quality. If data across different systems is mismatched or inaccessible, sometimes due to proprietary cloud solutions, AI applications will struggle to deliver meaningful insights. For vendors working with AI and big data, the challenge lies in standardising and anonymising diverse datasets across utilities and regions. While complex, addressing this challenge is key to unlocking AI’s full potential in reducing water loss.

Global events

SWIG EVENT. Future-Proofing the Water

Industry: Skills for AMP8 & Beyond

Date: 2 APRIL 2025 | Location: London, uk

Website: swig.org.uk

The workshop will explore the current state of skills and talent within the water industry. This is a particularly relevant topic, as the industry is preparing for its largest investment since privatisation, beginning in March 2025.

Each water company has a finite workforce responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing a wide range of assets throughout their lifecycle. The workshop will focus on the strategies water companies and their partners are implementing to attract, develop, and retain the essential skills needed to meet business demands.

Join us at Imperial College London where experts will discuss how the future “Skill Set” within the water industry will look in the future.

BAUMA 2025

Date: 7 - 13 APRIL 2025 | Location: Messe München, Germany Website: bauma.de

The world’s leading trade fair for Construction machinery, building material machines, mining machinery, construction vehicles and construction equipment

bauma is more than just the world’s leading trade fair for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles, and construction equipment : It is the heartbeat of the industry. Together with its international exhibitors and visitors, bauma acts every three years as a driver of innovation, a driving force for success, and a marketplace.

Smart Water Systems Conference

Date: 15 - 16 APRIL 2025 | Location: London, UK Website: bauma.de

The 14th Annual Smart Water Systems conference is designed as a high-level forum to facilitate strategic dialogue and collaboration among water utility companies, solution providers, government authorities, and investment professionals.

The primary goal is to examine cutting-edge technologies, explore the latest industry trends, and share best practices to advance the UK and European smart water market. Through an in-depth programme featuring case studies from pioneering water utilities and key industry stakeholders, we will explore how innovative tools such as IoT, Artificial Intelligence, and data analytics can transform network management, enhance leakage detection, and optimise resource efficiency, ultimately improving customer engagement and reducing water consumption.

Global Leakage Summit

Date: 7 - 8 may 2025 | Location: London, uk

Website: globalleakage.cventevents.com

The Global Leakage Summit is a two-day event for the international leakage community to listen, learn, and build relationships, tackling the toughest challenges together.

Join presenters and panellists from leading UK and international water companies, and explore the latest technologies, data innovations, and software solutions from exhibitors.

In the face of climate change and record-high global investment in leakage management, this two-day conference promises a world-class knowledge-sharing program and invaluable networking opportunities.

This event will be the 14th Global Leakage Summit, in a new prestigious venue which the organiser says will guarantee all delegates a first-class experience.

Global Water Summit 2025

Date: 12 - 14 may 2025 | Location: Paris, france

Website: watermeetsmoney.com

The Global Water Summit is the flagship water sector event of the year, renowned for its industry-leading agenda and the high concentration of water sector executives that attend each year. It is an unmatched networking and strategy development opportunity for our executive-level attendees, but we don’t just want the Global Water Summit to be the greatest annual event in the international water industry, we want it to be the best in every category of water event.

Water Equipment Show

Date: 15 may 2025 | Location: Shropshire, UK

Website: waterequipmentshow.com

The Water Equipment Show is the ideal event for those operating within the Water and Wastewater Industries, showcasing a wide range of equipment and services that are available from many of the UK’s leading manufacturers, suppliers and contractors. The technical conference and breakout sessions also reflect the show’s considerable impact within the UK water industry.

Utility Week Live

Date: 20 - 21 may 2025 | Location: Birmingham, UK

Website: utilityweeklive.co.uk

Europe’s only pan-utility exhibition - returns to the NEC in Birmingham on 20-21 May 2025, and it’s set to be bigger and better than ever! Having expanded across two halls (17 & 18), this landmark 10th-anniversary event promises an exciting mix of new and returning features, stages, and exhibitors, all centred around the headline theme, ‘Lead the Change’.

Featuring a record-breaking lineup of industry leaders delivering the most extensive and insightful theatre sessions to date, along with the latest cutting-edge technologies and solutions from more than 200 exhibitors - whether you work in utilities or collaborate with the sector, this must-attend event is your chance to connect, learn, and stay ahead.

European Wastewater Management Conference

Date: 17 - 18 June 2025 | Location: TELFORD, UK

Website: ewwmconference.com

Europe’s leading wastewater conference sharing operational experience and practical solutions.

The European Wastewater Management Conference provides an essential annual update on the latest innovations, best practice, cutting-edge technology and research in the wastewater sector.

Why Attend?

• Two full days of high-quality talks from industryleading professionals and practitioners

• A rich diversity of over 300 wastewater sector professionals

• Ample networking opportunities (2+ hours per day) for informal exchange of news and ideas, and building relationships

• An exhibition hall showcasing the latest technologies and wastewater services

• A fun and relaxed evening at the conference dinner – not to be missed!

• A display of novel research in the poster hall, plus the Student & Young Professionals’ Poster Competition