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The water sector is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by digitalization, private equity investments, and the consolidation of critical infrastructure. In this issue of Smart Water Magazine Print Edition, we bring together the voices and trends shaping the industry’s future.
Our cover story features Keith Muller, Sr. Director, Water Lifecycle Product Management and Engineering, Autodesk, who explores how AI and digital twins are redefining water infrastructure management. With utilities facing increasing challenges from climate change and resource constraints, digitalization is proving to be the key to resilience and operational efficiency.
We also take a deep dive into desalination and energy efficiency through insights from our exclusive roundtable, featuring leading experts Dr. Domingo Zarzo (Sacyr Water & AEDyR), Miguel Aritio (ACCIONA), Christos Charisiadis (Brine Consulting), and Jesús Rivas (WEG). Their discussion highlights cutting-edge innovations, from next-generation membranes and energy recovery technologies to AI-driven automation and the push for carbon-neutral desalination.
Private equity’s growing influence in the water sector is thoroughly analyzed by Saurabh Singh (BlueTech Research), who examines the latest investments and strategic acquisitions shaping the market. Meanwhile, Hans Goossens (Water Europe) provides key insights into Europe’s evolving water policies, and Menachem Elimelech (Rice University) shares the latest breakthroughs in membrane technologies for desalination. Geir Norden and Jaran Wood (Filtralite) also discuss how advanced filtration media is cutting operational costs and improving plant performance.
As Smart Water Magazine continues to evolve, we are introducing three new content hubs designed to deliver unparalleled insight. Project Tracker follows the most ambitious water projects worldwide, from large-scale desalination plants to climate resilience initiatives.
PUBLISHER
iAgua Conocimiento, S.L.
Calle López de Hoyos, 190 Entlo. B 28002 Madrid info@iagua.es
MANAGEMENT
Alejandro Maceira Rozados
David Escobar Gutiérrez
EDITOR
Water Deals tracks mergers, acquisitions, and investments that are reshaping the industry, offering a deep dive into the financial strategies driving growth. AI Insights explores how artificial intelligence is transforming water management, from predictive analytics to real-time automation, providing a glimpse into the future of digital utilities.
With record-breaking web traffic and increasing engagement on social media, Smart Water Magazine remains the essential source for those who want to stay ahead in the water sector.
Thank you for being part of this journey. We hope you enjoy this edition, and as always, we remain committed to driving innovation, investment, and sustainability in the industry.
- Director SWM D @amaceira - E @AlejandroMaceiraiAgua
Alejandro Maceira Rozados
EDITORIAL STAFF
Olivia Tempest Prados
Cristina Novo Pérez
Laura Fernández Zarza
Blanca María Álvarez Román
Javier de los Reyes
ART AND GRAPHIC DESIGN
Pablo González-Cebrián
Esther Martín Muñoz
PHOTOGRAPHY
Pablo González-Cebrián
Fotos iAgua
INTERVIEW
FEATURE FEATURE THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION WAVE
Pg. 68 Keith Muller (Autodesk) shares how AI, IoT, and cloud tools are reshaping water management for resilience and efficiency.
GLACIER LOSS AND WATER SECURITY
Pg. 94 World Water Day 2025 highlights how rapid glacier retreat threatens global freshwater availability and accelerates climate risks.
SUSTAINABLE WATER FOR INDUSTRY
Pg. 44 Almar Water Solutions develops smart desalination and treatment projects to secure water for industries and agriculture worldwide.
WATER: 2025’S BUSINESS ASSET
Pg. 27 Keith Hays of Bluefield Research explains why corporations are prioritizing water resilience to mitigate risks and boost efficiency.
EFFICIENCY THROUGH FILTRATION
Pg. 62 Geir Norden and Jaran Wood of Filtralite discuss how their filter media improves water treatment efficiency and sustainability.
ENERGY AND THE FUTURE OF DESAL
Pg. 34 Experts explore energy efficiency, digital tools, and resource recovery as key innovations shaping the next era of desalination.
NAVIGATING PFAS RISKS IN BIOSOLIDS
Pg. 61 Rashi Gupta of Carollo Engineers explains how the EPA’s draft PFAS risk assessment impacts biosolids management for utilities.
INNOVATING BORON REMOVAL TECH
Pg. 48 We interview Dr. Menachem Elimelech about his research on advanced desalination membranes for efficient boron removal from seawater.
FEATURE
PRIVATE EQUITY SHAPES WATER
Pg. 22 KKR, Bain, and Blackstone lead water investments, scaling infrastructure, driving sustainability, and executing high-value exits.
SPEAKERS' CORNER
EFFECTIVE WATER MESSAGING
Pg. 14 Tom Sommerfelt of SES Water explains how clear, engaging messaging can rebuild trust and drive behaviour change in water use.
GLOBAL FEVER
2024: THE HOTTEST YEAR ON RECORD
Pg. 16 The WMO confirms 2024 as the warmest year ever, marking a decade of record-breaking heat and urging urgent climate action.
WATER DEALS
THE BIGGEST WATER DEALS OF 2025
Pg. 18 Mergers, acquisitions, and investments in utilities, digital water, and infrastructure are transforming the global water sector.
OPINION
THE FUTURE OF DESALINATION
Pg. 58 David Escobar explores how innovation, renewables, and digitalization are making desalination more efficient, scalable, and green.
FEATURE
ENERGY-EFFICIENT WATER MOTORS
Pg. 52 WEG’s high-efficiency motors cut energy use and emissions, driving sustainability in desalination and water treatment plants.
AI INSIGHTS
THE AI REVOLUTION IN WATER
Pg. 66 AI-driven tools optimize water utilities, enhance sustainability, and reshape operations with predictive analytics and automation.
INTERVIEW
WATER SERVICE ACCOUNTABILITY
Pg. 84 Mike Keil of CCW discusses rising bills, trust issues, and the urgent need for transparency and fairness in the UK water sector.
INTERVIEW
BUILDING A WATER-SMART EUROPE
Pg. 28 Hans Goossens shares how Water Europe is driving policy, digitalization, and collaboration to ensure resilience and efficiency.
PERSON OF THE MONTH
WATER SCIENCE
Pg. 60 Professor Omar Yaghi’s MOF research enables water harvesting from air, advancing global solutions for scarcity and sustainability.
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN WATER
Pg. 78 Autodesk’s webinar series explores AI, GIS, and digital twins in flood resilience, hydraulic modelling, and stormwater management.
APPOINTMENTS
LEADERSHIP CHANGES IN WATER
Pg. 10 Key appointments in the sector, including Ecolab, Canada Water Agency, and Badger Meter, shaping the future of water management.
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE
LONDON'S SUPER SEWER PROJECT
Pg. 26 The Thames Tideway Tunnel captures 95% of sewage spills, significantly improving water quality and resilience in the River Thames.
PROJECT TRACKER REVOLUTIONIZING
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE GLOBAL VIEW
Pg. 20 Major projects in desalination, wastewater treatment, and climate resilience are shaping the future of water across continents.
A study finds that 86% of the world’s lakes have changed color in 40 years, linking the shifts to climate change and human activity.
A scientific team analyzed satellite images of 67,000 lakes since 1984, finding that only 14% retained a stable color. The study, published in Water Resources Research, attributes these shifts to changes in water quality, algae growth, and dissolved organic matter. "Sixty percent of lakes showed sig-
nificant color changes, reflecting the impact of climate change and human activity," said Zheng Duan, a researcher at Lund University. The findings underscore the urgent need for monitoring and conservation efforts to protect lake ecosystems from ongoing environmental threats.
In this section we have compiled the most important appointments that have taken place recently, and entail taking up a position or role within influential entities (public, private or mixed) in the water sector.
The board of directors of Ecolab Inc. has appointed Michel Doukeris, Chief Executive Officer of AB InBev, to the Ecolab board as an independent director.
Mr. Doukeris, age 51, is a prominent leader with deep global executive experience in the beverage industry. He has served as Chief Executive Officer of AB InBev since 2021, where he leads the world's largest brewer in its purpose to create a future with more cheers. His leadership roles across AB InBev in the United States, Asia and South America have equipped him with significant insights into global business operations, talent development, and the challenges of water and energy utilization. Under his leadership, the company has implemented various sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact while meeting consumer demands. Mr. Doukeris earned a Bachelor of Science (Chemical Engineering) from the Federal University of Santa Catarina (Brazil) and a Master’s Degree in Marketing from Fundação Getulio Vargas (Brazil). He has also completed post-graduate programs in Marketing and Marketing Strategy at the Kellogg School of Management (USA) and Wharton Business School (USA).
Michel Doukeris has served as Chief Executive Officer of AB InBev since 2021, where he leads the world's largest brewer
“It’s an honor to join the board of Ecolab, a company that is dedicated to delivering for its shareholders while making a positive impact for its customers and communities. I look forward to bringing my global experience to bear as I work with my fellow board members to help guide Ecolab’s strategy and advance the company’s growth,” said Michel Doukeris.
The Government of Canada has announced the appointment of Mark Fisher as the President of the newly established Canada Water Agency. Reporting to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Mr. Fisher will lead the agency in strengthening the country’s freshwater management and stewardship.
The Canada Water Agency aims to enhance freshwater protection by fostering collaboration across federal departments, provinces, territories, Indigenous partners, and private sector stakeholders. Mr. Fisher’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing science-based policies, monitoring initiatives, and integrating Indigenous knowledge into decision-making processes.
Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault expressed confidence in Mr. Fisher’s ability to lead the agency effectively. “The Canada Water Agency is at the forefront of strengthening our country’s freshwater resilience and sustainability. With Mr. Fisher at the helm, we are confident that the Agency will continue to make meaningful progress in ensuring clean and sustainable water for all Canadians.”
The federal government acknowledged the contributions of Daniel
Mark Fisher brings significant experience in freshwater management, having served as the President and CEO of the Council of the Great Lakes Region (CGLR) since 2014. Under his leadership, CGLR became a recognized regional leader in areas such as cross-border trade, border management, and Great Lakes protection. Daniel Wolfish’s contributions as Interim President were also acknowledged. Established in October 2024, the Canada Water Agency is headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
JOSE PULIDO NAMED PRIVATE WATER RELATIONSHIP MANAGER AT BADGER METER
“My vision is to ensure that every Investor-Owned Utility knows the full breadth of solutions available from Badger Meter”
AND
In his new role, Strauder Patton will strengthen and expand Brown and Caldwell’s program management services
Jose Pulido has been named Private Water Relationship Manager at Badger Meter, marking his 10th year at the global smart water solutions company. Throughout his tenure, Pulido has played a key role in driving and supporting sales growth across various U.S. regions, including the Northeast, Central, and Southwest, where he served as a Solution Architect for public water utilities and municipalities. He has witnessed the rapid evolution of both the company’s solutions and the water industry itself, a transformation reflected in BlueEdge, a comprehensive suite of smart water solutions that solidifies Badger Meter’s leadership in shaping the future of water management.
"Stepping into this role and being part of our fully dedicated Private Water team, at a time when Investor-Owned Utilities are expanding rapidly, makes this opportunity especially exciting. I certainly look forward to contributing to this evolving sector and supporting its continuous success," Pulido said.
Regulated utilities must adhere to strict guidelines to protect end customers. These regulations cover aspects such as non-revenue water (NRW), rate increases, pressure management, and water quality, among other critical factors. For Badger Meter, this means ensuring that Investor-Owned Utilities and State Commissioners are aware of the solutions that help them meet their objectives — ultimately benefiting ratepayers. Badger Meter engages the right subject matter experts to explore solutions tailored to specific utility needs.
Brown and Caldwell (BC) expands its program management services, welcoming industry expert Strauder Patton as Director of Program Management.
With over two decades of experience in engineering and construction, Strauder has successfully delivered marquee projects and programs around the world, most recently in Saudi Arabia and Jackson, Mississippi, demonstrating his leadership and delivery excellence in the water, infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, and power markets both in the U.S. and abroad.
In his new role, Strauder will strengthen and expand BC’s program management services as well as advance innovative solutions while driving initiatives that promote growth and excellence in delivery.
Brown and Caldwell Program Management Director Strauder Patton, said: “I am excited about joining Brown and Caldwell because of their excellent reputation in our industry in delivering water and environmental solutions for our public and private clients. I am passionate about growing our mission and driving transformative change in our communities through program management solutions.”
Based in Dallas, Strauder is a Professional Engineer and certified Project Management Professional with advanced degrees in civil engineering from the University of Kansas. Passionate about STEM and community leadership, Strauder is a Lifetime Member with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and his involvement spans over two decades in leadership roles.
UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR), the leading research organization for the UK water industry, announced the appointment of Mike Rose as the new Chief Executive Officer. With a career including senior positions in utilities and global consultancy organizations, Rose brings diverse experience to UKWIR. His appointment comes at a crucial time for the water sector, with challenges including climate change and resilience, improvements in river water quality and evolving customer expectations.
UKWIR is committed to enabling the industry in meeting these challenges through delivery of collaborative research. Bringing together partners with the right skills and the new leadership will be instrumental in driving this mission forward.
UKWIR Chair Richard Warneford said, "We are delighted to be able to appoint such a high caliber individual to this position. Mike Rose's understanding and experience in multiple sectors including water, coupled with his strategic vision and proven leadership capabilities, makes him the perfect choice to lead UKWIR as we navigate the evolving landscape. Mike’s experience in asset management and technology, combined with his global perspective, will be invaluable as we work to address the critical challenges facing the UK water industry and ensure a sustainable future.”
In 2024, Rose founded Asset Intelligence Advisory, a professional services consultancy with a strong focus on operations.
South Staffordshire Plc has announced the appointment of Elena Karpathakis as the new Managing Director for its water businesses, South Staffs Water and Cambridge Water.
Elena Karpathakis brings over two decades of leadership experience in regulated and safety-critical sectors. Prior to joining South Staffordshire Plc, she served as Vice President – Field Services Director at British Gas, overseeing one of the UK's largest in-home service engineering units. Her career also includes various operational and business planning leadership roles at Openreach and BT Group.
In her new position, Karpathakis will lead efforts to implement the 2025-2030 business plan for both South Staffs Water and Cambridge Water. This plan represents the largest investment period in the company's history, aiming to secure future water supplies, protect regional environments, and maintain customer bills among the lowest in the sector.
Karpathakis conveyed enthusiasm about joining at such a pivotal time, stating: "I’m delighted to be joining South Staffs Water and Cambridge Water at a time when the business, and sector, is starting out on its new five-year business planning period. I am looking forward to working with the whole team to deliver on our ambitions for our people, customers and the environment. There is lots of work to do to deliver our ambitious business plan, and I can’t wait to get started."
Charley Maher, Group CEO at South Staffordshire Plc, expressed confidence in Karpathakis's appointment.
MIKE ROSE APPOINTED AS THE NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF UKWIR
Rose's earlier career included leadership roles at United Utilities, where he was head of asset management & planning until 2016
ELENA KARPATHAKIS APPOINTED MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SOUTH STAFFS WATER AND CAMBRIDGE WATER
“The successful delivery of Cambridge Water’s 2025-2030 business plan is imperative for our customers, the environment, and our investor”
Tom Sommerfelt, PR & Communications Manager at SES Water
Effective communication in the water sector has never been more crucial. With increasing public scrutiny and a need for greater transparency, companies must find new ways to engage customers and stakeholders. In this interview, we speak with Tom Sommerfelt, PR & Communications Manager at SES Water (UK), about the evolving role of communication in the industry.
Z Olivia Tempest
How do you think communication in the water sector has evolved in recent years?
Given the landscape in which the water sector is operating at the moment and the widespread (and understandable) negative sentiment felt towards water companies, the communications coming from each company have needed to be a lot more focused and to the point to cut through the surrounding noise. While it has often been a sector known for using baffling operational acronyms, it has never been as important to put these to one side and instead communicate clearly and concisely for customers and stakeholders to understand.
Communicators in the sector have also had to become more creative in how they craft communications that stand out, particularly when it comes to topics that have long been talked about, such as water saving and water efficiency. The competing demands on people’s time continue to increase, meaning only the most impactful
communications will really grab their attention and sit above the rest.
Where trust in water companies has been eroded, communication has also shifted to a much more factual, evidence-based stance, where customers are rightly demanding proof points for all company statements, claims and promotions.
Why do you think it is important to communicate about water?
Having worked in water industry communications for more than five years, I still feel as passionate now as I did when I joined to get the voices heard of all the committed, talented and dedicated people who work within it. For all the negative perceptions out there about water companies, of which many are undoubtedly warranted, it’s easy for people to forget about the incredible teams working for them tirelessly, day in, and day out, to keep people’s water flowing, often in very demanding and challenging
environments. It’s these people that I feel a duty to help tell their stories and shine a positive light on an industry which is one of the most important in this country.
From an environmental point of view, it’s well-documented how crucial it is for everyone to be more aware of their water consumption. The looming shadow of climate change is not going anywhere and, therefore, neither is the need for a significant reduction in the amount of water we each use daily.
With this in mind, it’s more important than ever to inform people about the steps they can take to save water but done in a way which creates a sense of individual responsibility within each person. In recent years there has been a widespread onus on each of us to reduce our carbon footprint and emissions, but not necessarily enough importance placed on reducing our water footprint. Therefore, the need for robust and compelling communications to help nudge significant be-
haviour changes in people is vitally important.
What are the most challenging aspects of communicating water-related news?
Given the negative press around the water industry right now, this creates a challenging environment in which to communicate positive news and secure fair and balanced viewpoints in any coverage. New and creative approaches need to be adopted regularly in order to stand out to customers reading the news, and any messaging always needs to be backed up with clear evidence and accurate data to win back trust.
The other challenge is weighing up which news to communicate and at what time. There are often multiple requests internally for different projects to be promoted externally, however not all will be of relevance or interest to customers. So good internal stakeholder management is key to digging out the news items from the business that are most likely to have the biggest impact.
Firefighters extinguishing a forest fire during a heatwave.
@González-Cebrián/SWM
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has confirmed that 2024 was the warmest year on record, based on six international datasets. The past ten years have all been in the Top Ten, in an extraordinary streak of record-breaking temperatures.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged immediate action, stressing that while exceeding 1.5°C in a single year does not mean the Paris Agreement’s goals have been abandoned, every fraction of warming mat-
ters. Scientists warn that ocean heat is a key driver of rising temperatures. The WMO’s analysis, based on multiple datasets, confirms a decade-long warming trend fueled by record greenhouse gas levels. Experts emphasize that surpas-
sing 1.5°C temporarily does not signify long-term failure but underscores the urgency of action. The WMO released a full climate report in March 2025, calling on leaders to act decisively to avert worsening climate disasters.
A ROUNDUP OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT MERGERS, ACQUISITIONS, AND INVESTMENTS IN THE WATER SECTOR SINCE THE BEGINNING OF 2025
The water industry is undergoing a wave of consolidation, with major players strengthening their market positions through acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and high-value investments. In this section, we compile the most relevant transactions of the past few months, highlighting key deals that are driving innovation, expanding regional footprints, and reinforcing financial stability across the sector.
(€1B) Veolia & CriteriaCaixa (France & Spain)
Stake: 5% in Veolia | Sector: Utilities
Veolia secured a strategic partner with CriteriaCaixa acquiring a 5% stake for €1 billion, reinforcing Veolia’s financial stability and governance. This move aligns with its GreenUp strategic plan, ensuring long-term growth and investment in sustainable water infrastructure.
Xylem expands in Switzerland
Acquisition of: Heusser Water Solutions
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Water Management
Xylem strengthened its presence in Switzerland by acquiring Heusser Water Solutions, integrating 76 years of expertise in water infrastructure.
(€20M) Veralto acquires AQUAFIDES
Acquisition of: AQUAFIDES | €20M | Sector: Water Treatment
Veralto expanded its UV water treatment portfolio in Europe through the acquisition of AQUAFIDES, a leader in high-purity water solutions.
INDAQUA grows in Spain
Acquisition of: Hidrogestión
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Utilities
Portuguese company INDAQUA solidified its presence in Spain with the acquisition of Hidrogestión, gaining control of 11 water concessions across the country.
With increasing investments in digital water technology, smart infrastructure, and water security, the coming months will see further consolidation and expansion. Expect more crossborder acquisitions and strategic partnerships, as investors position themselves for long-term growth in a water-scarce world.
($185M) Badger Meter & SmartCover Systems
Acquisition of: SmartCover Systems
$185M | Sector: Digital Water / Sewer Monitoring
Badger Meter integrated real-time sewer monitoring technology into its BlueEdge suite, enhancing predictive analytics for wastewater management.
($18M) Aqua Pennsylvania expands
Acquisition of: Greenville Wastewater System
$18M | Sector: Utilities
Aqua Pennsylvania, a subsidiary of Essential Utilities, acquired the Greenville Sanitary Authority wastewater system, ensuring long-term infrastructure improvements.
Verdantas strengthens water services
Acquisition of: M-H-M
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Engineering / Water Services
Environmental consulting firm Verdantas expanded its water services in Northern California by acquiring MHM, strengthening its expertise in water supply, storage, and flood control.
Watts Water Technologies expands
Acquisition of: I-CON Systems
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Plumbing & Water Control
Watts Water Technologies expanded its digital water management solutions through the acquisition of I-CON Systems, a leader in plumbing controls.
K-Water enters Vietnam’s Market
Stake in: Key water supply & wastewater facilities
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Utilities
K-Water entered Vietnam’s booming industrial water sector, acquiring stakes in water and wastewater treatment plants near Ho Chi Minh City.
Arab Energy Fund acquires Metito Utilities
Acquisition of: Metito Utilities
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Water Infrastructure
A consortium led by Arab Energy Fund took full ownership of Metito Utilities, reinforcing water security investments in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Sulzer strengthens Middle East presence
Acquisition of: Davies and Mills
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Electromechanical Services
Swiss engineering firm Sulzer expanded its Middle Eastern presence with the acquisition of Davies and Mills, adding Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to its service network.
Supreme Industries expands in India
Acquisition of: Orbia Wavin’s Indian operations
Undisclosed amount | Sector: Water Infrastructure
Supreme Industries acquired Orbia Wavin’s pipes and fittings business in India, securing access to advanced water management technologies.
The U.S. is investing heavily in climate resilience, storage projects, and modern sewer networks to combat flooding and water scarcity.
Europe is focusing on modernizing aging infrastructure and improving wastewater management for environmental sustainability.
Country: United Kingdom
Companies: Lanes Group, Cappagh Browne, McAllister Bros
Client: Southern Water
Investment: £540 million (~$680M)
Type: Wastewater Network Expansion & Rehabilitation
Timeline: Starts April 2025, covering AMP8 (2025-2030)
Impact: Major upgrades to sewer maintenance, rehabilitation, and sealing in South East England, improving environmental resilience.
Country: USA
Companies: Sites Project Authority
Client: California State Government
Investment: $3 billion
Type: Off-stream Reservoir (1.5M acre-feet storage)
Timeline: Construction starts 2026, completion 2032
Impact: This new water storage system will serve 7.5 million people, securing supplies during droughts.
Country: USA
Companies: NYC Department of Environmental Protection
Client: NYC Government
Investment: $390 million
Type: Stormwater & Sewer Upgrades
Timeline: Construction begins 2029
Impact: Expands sewer capacity by 850%, reducing flood risks across 2,300 acres in Brooklyn.
Desalination remains a priority
Large-scale plants in Jordan, Oman, and the Philippines are securing drinking water supplies
Wastewater treatment is expanding Investments in Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the USA are improving wastewater efficiency
Asia is rapidly expanding desalination and smart water management systems to tackle population growth and climate risks.
Country: Philippines
Companies: Metro Pacific Water (MPW), SUEZ, Jemco
Client: Iloilo Government
Investment: PHP 5.5 billion (~$98M)
Type: Desalination Plant (Reverse Osmosis)
Timeline: Groundbreaking February 2025, estimated completion 2027
Impact: Provides 66.5 million litres/day of potable water to 400,000 people, ensuring climate-resilient water security.
Smart water technology integration
Vietnam’s AI-driven Smart Water Network signals the future of automated water management
Long-term contracts secure stability
Multi-decade projects like the Sites Reservoir (USA) ensure sustainability
One of the fastest-growing regions in water infrastructure investment, focusing on desalination, wastewater treatment, and long-term PPP models.
Country: Jordan
Companies: Meridiam, SUEZ, Orascom Construction, VINCI Construction
Client: Jordanian Government
Investment: $5 billion
Type: Desalination Plant & Water Transport (445 km pipeline)
Timeline: Announced January 2025, estimated completion 2029
Impact: This is Jordan’s largest-ever infrastructure project, designed to provide over 300 million cubic metres of drinking water annually to Amman and Aqaba. The project includes a 445 km pipeline that will increase Jordan’s domestic water supply by 60%.
Country: Saudi Arabia
Companies: Saudi Water Authority, National Water Company (NWC)
Client: Saudi Government
Investment: $1.2 billion
Type: Water & Sanitation Infrastructure
Timeline: Announced January 2025
Impact: Covering 73 projects, this initiative modernizes water supply networks, wastewater treatment plants, and agricultural initiatives, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sustainability goals.
SAUDI
Country: Saudi Arabia
Companies: National Water Company (NWC)
Client: Saudi Government
Investment: $426 million
Type: Water Transmission & Distribution
Timeline: Launched January 2025
Impact: This project will serve 3 million people in Makkah, improving water distribution during Hajj and Ramadan seasons. It includes 29 km of water transmission pipelines and major system upgrades.
Country: Saudi Arabia
Companies: WABAG, Mutlaq Al Ghowairi Contracting (MGC)
Client: Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC)
Investment: $399 million
Type: Independent Sewage Treatment Plant (ISTP)
Timeline: Expected completion 2027
Impact: This 200 MLD sewage treatment plant will increase wastewater treatment efficiency in Riyadh, reducing pollution and promoting water reuse.
Country: Oman
Companies: GS Inima, Aljomaih Energy & Water Company, SOGEX Oman
Client: Nama Power and Water Procurement Company
Investment: $370 million
Type: Desalination Plant (Reverse Osmosis)
Timeline: Financial close January 2025, operation Q1 2027
Impact: With a 300,000 m³/day capacity, this is Oman’s largest desalination plant, enhancing national water security.
Private equity (PE) is reshaping the global water sector, driving investment in infrastructure, technology, and service-based assets to accelerate growth and secure high-value exits.
As institutional capital continues to flow into water-related industries, private equity firms (PE) are playing a pivotal role in consolidating assets, scaling sustainable solutions, and modernizing critical infrastructure. In this analysis, Saurabh Singh, VP of Advisory Services at BlueTech Research, provides exclusive insights into the latest market trends, notable transactions, and investment strategies that are shaping the future of water. By examining both active portfolios and high-profile exits, the key financial sponsors leading the industry and the evolving dynamics of PE in water management are identified.
Expanding water technology and environmental solutions
Current investments: Geosyntec (2022), Desotec (2021), Legence (2020).
Successful exits: De Nora (2020), Nalco (2011).
Blackstone has built a strong portfolio in water treatment and environmental solutions, focusing on sustainable technologies and industrial remediation. Its 2020 exit from De Nora marked a milestone in its strategy to support innovation in water treatment, while its acquisition of Desotec (2021) reinforced its presence in mobile filtration and carbon reactivation services.
Infrastructure leadership and strategic exits
Current investments: Northumbrian Water (2022), Flow Control Group (2021), Axius Water (2019), Environmental Dynamics International (2020).
The firm’s investment in Geosyntec (2022) expanded its reach in environmental engineering and water contamination management, strengthening its role in climate resilience and pollution control. Blackstone continues to prioritize sustainability-driven water investments, ensuring its portfolio aligns with global trends in decarbonization and resource efficiency.
Successful exits: South Staffordshire Water (2018), CITIC United Envirotech (2016), Ecorbit (2024).
KKR remains a dominant force in water infrastructure investment, leveraging strategic acquisitions, divestments, and large-scale capital commitments. Its 2024 sale of Ecorbit to the IMM consortium ($2.07B) exemplifies its ability to navigate complex infrastructure deals, following its high-profile exits from South Staffordshire Plc (2018) and CITIC United Envirotech (2016, $281M).
Beyond direct acquisitions, KKR actively builds water-focused platforms, such as Axius Water (2019, with XPV Water Partners), a leader in nutrient management solutions for wastewater treatment. The firm is also exploring a £4B investment in Thames Water, reinforcing its role in stabilizing critical water assets.
On a broader scale, KKR’s infrastructure expansion is accelerating, with a $6.4B Asia Pacific infrastructure fund and a global fund targeting $20B, reflecting strong investor confidence in its ability to drive long-term returns in water and utilities.
KKR is a dominant force in water infrastructure investment, leveraging strategic acquisitions, divestments, and large-scale capital commitments
Current investments: Harrington (2023), AqueoUS Vets (2022), Eleda Group (2023), Arxada (2021), Italmatch Chemicals (2018)
Successful exits: Trinseo (2016)
Bain Capital is actively consolidating water technology and service providers, leveraging impact investing to drive sustainable water manage ment solutions. Following its 2016 exit from Trinseo, Bain has strengthened its water infrastructure and treatment portfolio, focusing on contaminant removal, pipeline maintenance, and efficiency optimization.
The firm’s AqueoUS Vets acquisition (2022) underscores its commitment to PFAS contamination solutions, expanding its nationwide services for municipal and industrial clients. Meanwhile, Harrington Process Solutions (2023) has accelerated growth through the acquisition of PumpMan, enhancing wastewater maintenance capabilities.
Bain Capital’s Double Impact Fund, launched in 2016, reinforces its dual commitment to financial growth and sustainability, targeting businesses that align operational efficiency with environmental benefits. This integrated investment strategy positions Bain as a key player in modernizing water treatment technologies and service networks.
Infrastructure remains a prime target: PE firms continue to prioritize regulated water assets and supply-chain optimization, as seen in KKR’s and Ridgewood’s investments.
Technology and sustainability are gaining momentum: Blackstone, Ember Infrastructure, and Bain Capital are heavily investing in sustainable water solutions and digital water management technologies.
Exit strategies are more sophisticated: The average holding period remains between 4-7 years, but firms are increasingly using IPO strategies, mergers, and partial stake sales for optimized returns.
The next wave of transactions (2025-2028) will be critical: With a high number of investments maturing, expect more secondary buyouts, recapitalizations, and large-scale exits in the coming years.
Current investments: H2O Innovation (2023), OnSite Performance (2023), Ground/Water Treatment & Technology (2023), Low Impact Development Technologies (2022) Successful exits: None reported
Ember Infrastructure is an emerging player in sustainable water solutions, focusing on decentralized infrastructure and efficiency-driven technologies. The firm’s $395 million acquisition of H2O Innovation (2023) reinforces its commitment to water reuse and treatment technologies.
With its $500 million second green fund, Ember is expanding investments in water and wastewater efficiency, targeting $50M-$150M per company. This strategy positions
Ember as a long-term investor in sustainable infrastructure, supporting climate resilience and decentralized water management.
Current investments: United Flow Technologies (2021), Standard Hidraulica (2021)
Successful exits: USALCO (2024)
H.I.G. Capital has aggressively expanded its water treatment and distribution portfolio through United Flow Technologies (UFT), executing multiple acquisitions since 2021. Key additions include Shape, Inc., Engineered Equipment Solutions, and Southwest Valve & Equipment, strengthening UFT’s market position in municipal and industrial water systems. Its 2024 sale of USALCO, a leading chemical solutions provider, underscores H.I.G.’s ability to consolidate assets and execute high-value exits in the water sector.
Current investments: Apex Companies (2023), Alliance Technical (2021), Seven Seas Water (2020)
Successful exits: None reported
Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners (MSIP) focuses on longterm infrastructure investments, prioritizing water utilities and engineering solutions over quick turn exits. Its 2020 acquisition of Seven Seas Water expanded its Water-as-a-Service (WaaS) model, which enables clients in the Caribbean and Peru to access desalination and treatment services without large capital outlays.
MSIP targets stable, long-lifecycle assets in OECD countries, taking controlling stakes to optimize operations and drive sustainability. Its investments align with water conservation and stewardship, reinforcing its position as a key player in regulated water markets.
Current investments: Ardurra Group (2023)
Successful exits: Dana Kepner (2024), HydroChemPSC (2021)
Littlejohn & Co. has solidified its position in industrial water services through a series of strategic mergers and acquisitions. The firm scaled HydroChemPSC before selling it to Clean Harbors for $1.25B (2021), and later exited Dana Kepner (2024) after boosting its market reach. During its ownership, HydroChemPSC underwent a major transformation, expanding its engineered services division and integrating key acquisitions, reinforcing Littlejohn’s expertise in value creation within the water sector.
Current investments: Waste Resources Management (2024), Prospect Lake Clean Water Center (2023), Undine (2019) Successful exits: Vista Ridge (2024)
Ridgewood Infrastructure has established itself as a long-term investor in water resource management, focusing on large-scale water projects and sustainable infrastructure. Its 2024 exit from Vista Ridge, a major Texas water supply project, highlights its ability to develop and monetize critical assets.
In January 2025, Ridgewood closed its Water & Strategic Infrastructure Fund II at $1.2B, surpassing its $1B target, demonstrating strong investor confidence in its commitment to water and wastewater investments.
Private equity will continue to shape the future of water infrastructure and treatment technologies, with firms targeting high-growth assets while preparing for strategic exits. The increasing focus on climate resilience and sustainability will also drive new investments in green water management solutions, making this an evolving and dynamic investment space.
London’s Thames Tideway Tunnel, also known as the super sewer, has been fully activated, marking a major milestone in improving water quality in the River Thames. This 25 km tunnel, the largest infrastructure project of its kind, is designed to capture 95% of sewage spills, preventing millions of tonnes of waste from entering the river. Since its initial connections, it has already stopped 5.5 million cubic metres of sewage — equivalent to 2,200 Olympic swimming pools — from polluting London’s waterways.
After nearly a decade of construction, the final connections between the Victorian sewer system and the new tunnel have been completed. The system will now undergo
storm-condition testing, ensuring it can handle extreme rainfall without sewage overflows.
Funded by Thames Water customers, the project will reduce sewage discharges into the river and enhance biodiversity, recreation, and public health. It is expected to significantly reduce pollution, benefiting wildlife and local communities. Environmental leaders, including Mayor Sadiq Khan, have hailed it as a step toward a cleaner, healthier river. Once fully tested later this year, Thames Water will operate the system, reinforcing London’s resilience to climate change and population growth, ensuring a sustainable future for its iconic river.
KEITH HAYS VP AND MANAGING DIRECTOR AT BLUEFIELD RESEARCH
Water has shifted from an overlooked resource to a critical business asset, influencing corporate strategy across industries. This transformation is driven by climate volatility, technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and infrastructure challenges, making water resilience a key factor in competitive advantage.
What’s certain is ongoing uncertainty: Environmental, regulatory, and economic risks persist for water
Climate change is making water access unpredictable, while outdated infrastructure leads to significant losses — some systems waste up to 30% of treated water. Stricter European regulations on micropollutants, PFAs, and water reuse will escalate compliance costs, compelling companies to reassess exposure to water-related risks. The European Commission’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), though recently reduced to 20% of mandated companies, will increase compliance pressure in the long term.
The risk premium on these uncertainties is exacerbated in the context of a looming macroeconomic downturn. In the U.S., fluctuating policies and trade disputes create challenges and added costs for water infrastructure suppliers. Germany’s current economic weakness and stagnation — driven by high energy costs, trade disruptions, and geopolitical instability — is constraining industrial water demand, estimated to decline by 10%-12% through 2026. Although the EU aims to increase annual water investment to €75 billion by 2030, economic uncertainty could delay projects and stress utilities.
Striking gold in blue: Optimization, investment, AI reshape the water market
Despite this list of sector challenges, necessity remains the mother of invention, and in this case, water circularity is now a strategic necessity for large corporate water users. For example, Coca-Cola’s closed-loop systems in Greece and Nigeria prove near-total water reuse is economically viable, while PepsiCo is investing in rainwater harvesting to mitigate groundwater depletion risks. Over 90% of leading food and beverage firms have set formal water targets, as regulatory pressures increase.
This expectation weighs on the energy sector as it grows more water-dependent. While U.S. coal plant retirements cut thermoelectric withdrawals by 26.8% since 2014, emerging industries are driving new demands. AI-driven data centers, requiring significant cooling water, are reshaping corporate strategies. With data centers projected to consume 8.5% of U.S. electricity by 2030, businesses must integrate water and energy planning to reduce risk.
Private capital is embracing the shift to sustainability with advanced technologies. Firms drove 334 water-related deals in the first three quarters of 2024. Infrastructure funds and corporate acquirers target digital water tech, decentralized treatment, and AI-driven leak detection. Engineering firms, utilities, and tech providers acquire niche water companies to expand capabilities.
"Necessity remains the mother of invention, and in this case, water circularity is now a strategic necessity for large corporate water users"
A primary driver for enhanced capabilities is artificial intelligence, which has begun to revolutionize water management. Tech giants are integrating AI into water strategies — Google DeepMind is working with a European utility to cut system-wide water loss by 25%, while Microsoft and Amazon are addressing their water footprints.
Conclusion: Effective water strategy is a competitive advantage
Companies treating water as a risk-free, ever-abundant resource may face operational disruptions and regulatory exposure. Those managing it strategically will gain market resilience and long-term competitive advantages. In 2025, water strategy is not just about sustainability, it is about securing a company’s future in an economy where water dictates success or failure.
HANS GOOSSENS CEO OF DE WATERGROEP AND PRESIDENT OF WATER EUROPE
“2025
With water challenges intensifying, Hans Goossens, CEO of De Watergroep and President at Water Europe, discusses the urgent need for innovation, policy action, and collaboration to build a sustainable, resilient, and water-smart future for Europe.
and civil society to foster collaboration and drive progress. We advocate for policies that promote water resilience and sustainable management, emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates technological innovation, policy development, and community engagement. Through our initiatives, we aim to shape a robust governance framework that ensures water security for current and future generations.
Commissioner Jessika Roswall recently previewed the forthcoming European Water Resilience Strategy; how do you assess the current momentum and future prospects for elevating water issues on the EU’s political agenda?
With water scarcity, climate change, and rising industrial demand putting increasing pressure on global resources, effective water governance and innovation have never been more urgent. Leading the charge in shaping Europe’s water future is Hans Goossens, CEO of De Watergroep – the largest water company in Flanders, Belgium – and President of Water Europe. His leadership at Water Europe focuses on fostering collaboration among industries, policymakers, researchers, and communities to drive forward a vision for a Water-Smart Society — one that ensures resilience, sustainability, and efficiency in water management across the continent.
In this exclusive interview, Hans Goossens discusses the EU’s evolving water resilience strategy, the growing momentum behind integrating water issues into Europe’s political and economic agenda, and the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration. He shares insights on balancing industrial water demands with sustainability goals, overcoming barriers to alternative water sources, and the transformative potential of digital water technologies. As Water Europe continues to drive policy innovation and investment in water-smart solutions, he highlights
the key challenges ahead and the actions needed to build a more sustainable and resilient water future.
Tell us briefly about your background and your current professional roles. I have been the CEO of De Watergroep since 2017 and have served as President of Water Europe since 2022. Before joining the water sector, I worked in the global fertilizer industry for almost 25 years. I have held various management positions for Norsk Hydro and Yara International in Belgium, The Netherlands, Norway, France, and Italy within R&D, Production, Business Development, Marketing & Sales and General Management. Throughout my professional journey, I have always been passionate about advancing sustainable solutions for the development of businesses and society, with a particular focus on addressing the global water challenge.
With growing water and climate challenges and the EU’s heightened focus on water resilience, can you comment on Water Europe’s role in shaping water governance in Europe? Water Europe’s vision is to build a Water-Smart Society. We aim to achieve this by connecting diverse stakeholders, policymakers, industry leaders, researchers,
First of all, the appointment of Commissioner Roswall already marks a very important step forward in elevating water resilience as a strategic priority for Europe. It signifies a strong commitment to addressing water-related challenges and advancing sustainable solutions at the highest policy level. This momentum is now further supported by the upcoming European Resilience Strategy, which presents an opportunity to embed water resilience into the broader framework of Europe’s preparedness and sustainability. By integrating sustainable water management, technological innovation, and stronger governance, the strategy can ensure that Europe is better equipped to tackle current and future challenges, safeguarding water resources for communities, industries, and ecosystems, alike.
Efforts to build a water-smart society must involve all sectors. How can cross-sector collaboration be strengthened to ensure that water sustainability, security, and resilience are integrated into Europe’s broader economic and environmental strategies?
At Water Europe, we believe that building a Water-Smart Society requires strong cross-sector collaboration, and we actively foster this through our annual events and also our collaboration programme
with our Expert Groups, and Communities of Practice (CoPs). Our flagship events, Water Innovation Europe, Water Knowledge Europe and Water Market Europe serve as dynamic platforms for connecting diverse stakeholders. These events facilitate knowledge exchange, promote partnerships, and accelerate the uptake of innovative solutions, ensuring that water sustainability, security, and resilience are integrated into Europe’s broader economic and environmental strategies. Additionally, our Expert Groups and Communities of Practice provide continuous dynamic spaces for collaboration and dialogue, where professionals from various sectors can share insights, co-create solutions, and contribute to shaping European water-related policies and initiatives. Through the Water-Oriented Living Labs (WOLLs), we provide platforms for showcasing, testing, and deploying transformative water-related solutions and approaches, accelerating the journey of innovation from concept to market.
Most companies recognize business risks associated with water challenges; how can the private sector be better integrated into the EU’s water resilience strategy to promote sustainable practices while maintaining competitiveness? The private sector can be better integrated through incentives for sustainable water practices, clearer regulatory frameworks, and support for innovative solutions. Water Europe advocates for policies that encourage corporate investment in water-efficient technologies and circular economy practices. Highlighting
"The appointment of Commissioner Roswall marks a very important step forward in elevating water resilience as a strategic priority for Europe"
the business case for sustainability, where resilience equates to competitiveness, is essential for long-term engagement.
Some industries like semiconductors and hydrogen production are highly water-intensive, yet they are crucial to Europe’s economic growth and technological advancement. How do you propose balancing the demands of these industries with the broader goals of water sustainability and resilience? Balancing the water demands of water-intensive industries, like semiconductors and hydrogen production with Europe’s goals for sustainability and resilience requires a multi-faceted approach. According to our Water Europe’s socio-economic study on the Value of the EU investing in Water, these sectors are projected to grow substantially, with water demand potentially increasing by 2.6 times by 2030. To address this challenge, investing in advanced technologies is essential to enhance water efficiency and reduce consumption through cutting-edge purification systems and closed-loop recycling processes. Diversifying water sources, such as utilizing desalinated seawater, can alleviate pressure on freshwater supplies and strengthen resilience in water-stressed regions. Strategic investments in water infrastructure are also crucial. Our study calls for €255 billion in investments by 2030 to enhance water management and infrastructure, supporting the growth of key industries while ensuring environmental sustainability. Additionally, strengthening partnerships between industries, policymakers, and research institutions is vital to fostering the development and implementation of innovative, water-saving technologies and sustainable practices. This collaborative approach ensures that water sustainability is fully integrated into Europe’s broader economic growth strategies.
Water Europe’s vision emphasizes the integration of “multiple waters” into water systems, including rainwater,
brackish water, and recycled water. What are the main barriers to adopting this diversified water management approach, and how can they be overcome? Integrating diverse water sources, such as rainwater, brackish water, and recycled water, into Europe’s water systems is essential for achieving our vision. However, regulatory challenges remain significant, as existing frameworks may not sufficiently support the safe integration of alternative water sources. Public perception, also, plays a critical role, with concerns about health and safety often limiting acceptance of recycled or non-traditional water. Additionally, many existing systems are technically ill-equipped to manage multiple water sources efficiently. Overcoming these barriers requires clear policy reforms, stronger public engagement to build trust in alternative water solutions, financial incentives to encourage infrastructure development, and investments in research to foster innovative and cost-effective technologies. By addressing these challenges, Europe can make significant steps by moving towards a more sustainable and resilient water future.
Digital Water technologies, such as AI, IoT, and digital twins, are central to optimizing water system management. How do you envision these tools reshaping water governance and decision-making processes across Europe?
Digital water technologies like AI, IoT, and digital twins can transform water governance in Europe by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. AI optimizes resource allocation and detects inefficiencies, while IoT enables real-time monitoring of water quality and infrastructure. Digital twins can also allow stakeholders to simulate scenarios and plan proactive strategies. In sectors, like data centres, adopting advanced cooling technologies, such as adiabatic systems, could reduce water consumption by 74 million m³ and save €260 million in operational costs annually by 2030, according to our study. These innovations not only lower environmental impacts but also free potable water for essential use. By integrating these digital tools and enhancing data management, Europe can improve decision-making, drive efficiency, and build a resilient Water-Smart Society.
"Building a Water-Smart Society requires strong cross-sector collaboration, and we foster this through our events and collaboration programme"
The concept of a circular water economy features prominently in Water Europe’s vision. What are the most promising innovations or policies that have emerged in the past year to accelerate the shift from linear to circular water management in both urban and industrial contexts?
Over the past year, key innovations and policies have advanced the shift towards circular water management in Europe. Technological progress in water reuse and recycling, such as advanced membrane filtration, new sensor technologies and decentralized treatment systems has enabled safer and more efficient water recovery in urban and industrial settings. In industries, closed-loop systems are reducing water consumption and waste by enabling multiple reuse cycles. On the policy side, the revision of the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive emphasizes water reuse and energy efficiency, while funding from the EU Green Deal and Horizon Europe is accelerating investment in circular solutions. Together, these developments are driving Europe closer to a sustainable, circular water economy.
Looking ahead to the rest of 2025, what are the critical milestones or actions Water Europe aims to achieve to ensure meaningful progress in building a Water-Smart Society? How will success be measured in this transformative journey?
2025 is a crucial year, with water finally gaining prominent visibility on the political agenda. As the Water Resilience Strategy takes shape and water is recognized as a key driver of Europe’s competitiveness, the outlook is highly promising. Water Europe will strengthen its policy efforts, foster collaboration through its Expert Groups and Communities of Practice, and create the conditions for its entire community to seize emerging opportunities. Success will be measured by increased policy uptake, tangible improvements in water efficiency and reuse, and stronger stakeholder engagement. We remain committed to driving progress through innovation, advocacy, and collaboration, all with the aim of building a Water-Smart Society.
"Digital water technologies can transform water governance in Europe by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and resilience"
Public scrutiny intensifies as the utility navigates financial turmoil and mounting challenges
Thames Water, the United Kingdom's largest water utility, is currently navigating a complex financial landscape characterized by substantial debt, legal challenges, and restructuring efforts. As of early 2025, the company is burdened with approximately £19 billion in debt, prompting a series of strategic initiatives aimed at stabilizing its financial position and ensuring the continuity of services to its 16 million customers.
In February 2025, Thames Water secured approval from the High Court for a £3 billion restructuring plan designed to extend the company's liquidity and avert potential insolvency. This development is viewed as a critical step in strengthening the company's long-term financial resilience and supports ongoing efforts toward a holistic recapitalization.
While environmental campaigners and a small group of Thames creditors challenged the High Court’s approval of the £3 billion emergency bailout, the Appeal Court finally dismissed the appeal on March 17 and ruled in favour of Thames Water, as reported by The Guardian. Liberal Democrat MP Charlie Maynard’s argument, representing
Thames Water’s £3 billion bailout faces legal challenges, while investors propose competing rescue plans. The outcome will shape the future of the UK’s largest water services provider.
campaigners, was that with nearly £1 billion in interest and consultancy fees, the bailout was not in the public interest and that special administration — a government intervention allowed under the 1991 Water Industry Act — would be a cheaper and more effective alternative.
Amid its financial restructuring, Thames Water has attracted interest from various investors proposing different strategies to stabilize and revitalize the company.
In December 2024, Covalis Capital, in partnership with France's Suez, submitted a bid that involved partnering with France’s Suez to manage a significant restructuring and prepare the company for a public stock market listing. Covalis proposed to break up the utility by selling off key assets, including potentially entire regions like the Thames Valley, and then listing the remaining core business. As part of the proposal, the UK government would hold a "golden
share," granting it a seat on the board and strategic oversight. Covalis plans to inject £1 billion upfront and raise a further £4 billion through asset sales, refinancing, and the eventual listing in two to three years. Suez signed an exclusive agreement to act as the operating partner on the project. The French company would not take an equity stake in Thames Water but would provide advisory and operational support to address the utility's challenges.
Thames Water has also received non-binding offers of £4 billion each from U.S. investment firm KKR and UK-based Castle Water. Both KKR and Castle Water are looking to own a majority stake in the utility without selling any assets, as reported by Bloomberg News. Castle Water previously acquired the non-household division of Thames Water in 2017 and also plans to list the company on the stock market if successful. The company has requested addi-
tional details on these bids to evaluate their feasibility and alignment with its longterm objectives, according to Bloomberg. CK Infrastructure Holdings Ltd. – a Hong Kong-based company which owns Northumbrian Water alongside KKR – is reported to also be considering taking a majority stake in Thames Water and has held discussions with the utility.
To finance essential infrastructure projects and meet its financial obligations, Thames Water appealed to the UK’s competition regulator for a redetermination, to be able to exceed the 35% increase approved by Ofwat for the 2025-2030 period. The company and Ofwat later agreed that Ofwat will defer making the reference to the CMA for a period of up to 18 weeks from 18 March 2025.
Thames Water is at a crucial juncture as it works through its £3 billion restructuring plan, evaluates investment offers, and navigates regulatory challenges. The outcome of this crisis will shape the future of the UK’s water industry, influencing customer costs, environmental policies, and the role of private investors in public utilities.
The world’s reliance on desalination has never been greater. As climate change accelerates drought conditions and freshwater sources become increasingly strained, seawater desalination has moved from an alternative solution to an essential pillar of water security.
Z Alejandro Maceira
Despite desalination’s undeniable role in ensuring supply in arid regions, it remains an energy-intensive process, with power consumption representing up to 60% of operational costs. In an era of rising electricity prices and ambitious decarbonization targets, the industry faces a pressing challenge: how to reconcile water security with energy efficiency.
To explore this question, Smart Water Magazine convened the Virtual Roundtable on Energy Efficiency in Desalination – Innovations and Sustainable Practices, held on March 4, 2025. The event gathered leading experts to address the technological breakthroughs and strategic approaches that are reshaping the industry, offering a deep dive into the solutions that can reduce desalination’s energy footprint while ensuring long-term sustainability.
The discussion unfolded through four key perspectives, each tackling a different aspect of desalination’s energy challenges. Dr Domingo Zarzo, Head of Strategic Projects and Institutional Relations at Sacyr Water & President of AEDyR, provided a global view of desalination trends, dismantling misconceptions and highlighting the industry’s progress in reducing energy consumption over the past decades. Miguel Aritio, Director of Energy Resources & Business Development North Africa at ACCIONA, examined how large-scale desalination plants can optimize power use, leveraging renewables and energy recovery systems to minimize costs. Christos Charisiadis, Founder & Principal Consultant at Brine Consulting, introduced a sustainability-driven vision for brine management, showcasing how modern desalination can transition from waste disposal to resource recovery and circular economy principles. Finally, Jesús Rivas, Water and Wastewater Global Manager at WEG, explored the role of high-efficiency motors and digital automation, illustrating how smart process control and AI-powered maintenance can enhance desalination performance.
This roundtable served as a meeting point for ideas and innovation, connecting water professionals with the latest advancements in membrane technology, energy optimization, and decarbonization strategies. The following analyses delve into each of these expert perspectives, offering a comprehensive look at the future of energy-efficient desalination.
Aritio Director of Energy Resources & Business Development North Africa at ACCIONA
Jesús Rivas Water and Wastewater Global Manager at WEG
"Automation and AI will push desalination toward selfoptimizing, low-energy operations within the next decade"
Beyond myths: how desalination is becoming smarter and more sustainable Dr Domingo Zarzo opened the discussion with a global perspective on the evolution of desalination, highlighting how it has transitioned from a last-resort solution to a key pillar of water security. With 800 million people lacking access to safe drinking water and 2.2 billion facing unreliable supplies, desalination is no longer an option but a necessity. The industry has responded with rapid technological advancements, increasing efficiency while dispelling outdated misconceptions about energy use, environmental impact, and cost.
Contrary to widespread belief, modern desalination is far from the inefficient, high-energy process it was decades ago. Today’s reverse osmosis (RO) systems consume as little as 3 kWh per cubic metre, a dramatic improvement that has positioned the industry as one of the few to reduce energy consumption by a factor of ten over the last 50 years. This transformation has been driven by high-efficiency membranes, advanced energy recovery devices (ERDs), and AI-powered process optimization, making desalination more competitive than ever. Zarzo compared its energy use to common household appliances, noting that the electricity required to supply a family of four with desalinated water for a year is equivalent to running a refrigerator.
Another persistent myth concerns brine discharge and its impact on marine ecosystems. Zarzo emphasized that studies show salinity levels quickly return to normal just metres from discharge points, challenging the assumption that desalination poses an existential threat to marine life. When placed against the environmental footprint of other water sources, desalination proves to be far less invasive than commonly assumed.
However, the industry’s progress does not mean there are no challenges ahead. While Spain, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE continue expanding their desalination capacity, the sector is approaching the thermodynamic limit of 1 kWh/m³, meaning future energy reductions will be incremental rather than revolutionary. Zarzo pointed to the importance of smart RO plant configurations, optimized pretreatment, and AI-driven automation, which allow plants to dynamically adjust pressure, flow rates, and chemical dosing in real time, further enhancing efficiency.
Decarbonization remains the industry’s next frontier, yet it comes with technical and logistical hurdles. While many nations are experimenting with renewables, large desalination plants require constant energy, making it difficult to rely solely on solar and wind without large-scale storage solutions. Some countries, such as Spain and Australia, are taking an alternative approach by purchasing renewable energy offsets, ensuring cleaner desalination without the need for direct on-site renewable generation.
Looking ahead, Zarzo emphasized that the future of desalination extends beyond water production. The industry is increasingly embracing circular economy principles, with brine mining and resource recovery emerging as promising solutions to transform waste into valuable commodities. AI and digitalization will also play a crucial role in ensuring that desalination continues to improve, not only in efficiency but also in public perception. Initiatives such as the Water Positive Initiative, which brings together over 400 professionals worldwide, are working to offset the water footprint of industrial activity, ensuring that desalination remains a sustainable and financially viable solution for generations to come.
Zarzo left the audience with a clear message: desalination is not only an energy-efficient process — it is becoming a cornerstone of sustainable water management. Through continued investment in technology, policy innovation, and digital transformation, the industry is proving that water security and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
Optimizing energy at scale: the future of large-scale desalination
Miguel Aritio explored one of the most pressing issues in desalination: how to manage energy use in large-scale facilities without compromising efficiency or sustainability. With energy costs representing up to 40% of the total cost per cubic metre of water produced, it is clear that the industry must rethink its approach to power consumption. His presentation provided both a strategic vision and practical solutions, focusing on renewable energy integration, energy recovery, and process optimization to drive desalination toward a more sustainable future.
His analysis highlighted the unique energy challenge of desalination — plants operate with flat, continuous consumption, requiring high-voltage energy input that does not always align with the intermittent nature of renewables. While solar and wind energy have become highly competitive, their integration into desalination remains complex due to storage limitations and fluctuating power output.
To address this, Aritio outlined three primary energy supply strategies currently shaping the industry. The first is on-site renewable energy generation, where some desalination plants are directly integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, covering up to 20% of their energy demand in optimal conditions. However, land constraints often limit scalability, as each hectare of a desalination plant requires at least five hectares of PV panels to achieve this level of contribution.
Another approach is Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), where desalination operators secure long-term renewable energy contracts with independent power producers. This allows them to access clean energy without requiring on-site generation. This model has been successfully implemented in Spain and Australia, where national grids facilitate renewable energy supply to desalination plants.
The third strategy involves hybrid systems incorporating energy storage. A growing number of desalination projects are experimenting with integrated battery storage and smart grid solutions to stabilize renewable power input. Hydrogen production from excess renewable energy could play a role in the long-term decarbonization of desalination.
To illustrate real-world applications, Aritio presented the case study of the Jubail 3B desalination plant in Saudi Arabia, designed and built by ACCIONA. This 500,000 m³/day facility was designed to operate with 60 MWp of solar PV capacity, directly connected to the desalination plant’s transformers. This setup allows the plant to cover 20% of its annual energy needs with solar energy, maximizing self-sufficiency while ensuring continuous operation. However, as pointed out, such projects require significant land availability, with PV installations covering four to five times the area of the desalination facility itself.
Looking to the future, Aritio emphasized that desalination will play a central role in the global energy transition. As the industry moves toward fully renewable-powered desalination, new challenges will emerge—particularly regarding grid integration, large-scale energy storage, and policy support. He concluded by reaffirming that efficiency must be tackled from multiple angles: combining renewables, advanced energy recovery, smart automation, and rethinking plant design from the ground up.
While solar and wind energy have become highly competitive, their integration into desalination remains complex due to storage limitations
"Energy
efficiency is no longer just a goal — it is a fundamental requirement for desalination to remain viable"
Dr. Domingo Zarzo
Head of Strategic Projects and Institutional Relations at Sacyr Water & President of AEDyR
daFrom waste to resource: the transformation of brine management in desalination
For decades, desalination has been criticized for its brine discharge, often seen as an unavoidable byproduct with limited solutions. Christos Charisiadis challenged this perception, presenting a vision where brine is not waste but an untapped resource. His presentation explored how modern desalination plants are shifting toward resource recovery, transforming brine into valuable minerals while reducing environmental impact.
The scale of the challenge is immense — 142 million cubic metres of desalinated water are produced daily, generating an equivalent volume of brine. Disposing of this byproduct through traditional methods can elevate salinity levels in marine environments and requires additional energy-intensive processes. However, Charisiadis argued that brine holds enormous economic potential if approached differently. With the right technology, elements such as magnesium, lithium, and bromine can be extracted, turning desalination into a dual-purpose industry: water production and mineral recovery.
Several real-world projects are already demonstrating the viability of this approach. In Saudi Arabia, magnesium recovery has offset desalination costs by $8-12 per cubic metre. The Dead Sea’s bromine extraction supplies 85% of global demand, while lithium, essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, is being recovered at commercial levels. These initiatives are proving that desalination can be a key player in the circular economy, shifting from a cost-heavy operation to one with financial returns.
Charisiadis emphasized that achieving this transformation requires more than just new extraction methods — it demands a rethink of desalination infrastructure. Hybrid membrane-based brine concentration systems are emerging as the most promising ap-
Governments are beginning to view desalination as a strategic sector, not just for water security, but for resource sustainability
proach, capable of reducing brine discharge by up to 90% while significantly lowering energy consumption compared to conventional thermal methods. These systems, which combine reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and membrane distillation, are making it possible to concentrate brine efficiently while recovering high-value minerals.
Beyond technology, digitalization is playing a crucial role. Charisiadis highlighted how AI-driven process optimization and digital twins are improving brine management by reducing energy consumption, predicting maintenance needs, and enabling real-time monitoring. In plants where these technologies have been implemented, operational costs have dropped significantly, reinforcing the case for widespread digital transformation in desalination.
However, technology alone is not enough. Charisiadis made it clear that policy and industry collaboration will determine how quickly brine management evolves. The European Union’s Water Framework Directive is already enforcing stricter brine discharge regulations, pushing desalination plants toward resource recovery. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is accelerating investments in brine mining, while China’s Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) regulations are driving industries toward full brine treatment solutions. These initiatives signal a broader shift: governments are beginning to view desalination as a strategic sector, not just for water security, but for resource sustainability. Looking ahead, Charisiadis painted a picture of desalination plants evolving into self-sustaining ecosystems, where brine is no longer discarded but fully utilized. Scaling up mineral recovery, integrating renewables into brine treatment, and developing financial incentives for circular economy initiatives will be key to this transition. His final message was clear: brine should no longer be seen as an environmental burden but as a valuable resource with economic and sustainability benefits. By aligning policy, investment, and technology, desalination has the potential to become not just a solution for water scarcity, but a contributor to the broader sustainability agenda.
Powering the future: how high-efficiency motors and digitalization are transforming desalination
In the intricate mechanics of desalination plants, motors are the silent force behind every drop of purified water. Jesús Rivas took the audience into the heart of these
"Desalination reduced energy use by a factor of ten in 50 years. The challenge now is to push efficiency further and integrate sustainability"
Dr.
Domingo Zarzo Head of Strategic Projects and Institutional Relations at Sacyr Water & President of AEDyR
"Brine should no longer be seen as a waste product. With the right approach, desalination can become a circular economy model where waste becomes a valuable resource"
Christos Charisiadis Founder and Principal Consultant at Brine Consulting
"Energy
efficiency is not just about reducing costs — it’s about rethinking how desalination integrates with renewable energy to ensure a long-term, sustainable future"
Miguel Aritio Director of Energy Resources & Business Development North Africa at ACCIONA
operations, where the energy challenge is not just about producing water — it’s about doing so as efficiently as possible. With up to 50% of desalination operational costs tied to energy consumption, optimizing motor performance is not just an improvement — it’s a necessity.
Rivas highlighted that high-pressure pumps, booster pumps, and intake systems account for the bulk of desalination’s electricity demand. Every inefficiency in motor performance translates into higher costs, greater energy waste, and increased carbon emissions. The solution, he argued, lies in next-generation high-efficiency motors — designed to minimize energy losses while ensuring consistent performance under extreme operating conditions.
WEG’s IE3, IE4, and IE6 motors, achieving efficiencies of up to 98%, are already redefining how desalination plants operate. By integrating permanent magnet motors, axial flux configurations, and advanced cooling systems, these technologies are reducing energy consumption by 20-30%, delivering not only cost savings but also a smaller environmental footprint.
However, motor efficiency alone is not enough. Rivas emphasized the game-changing role of digital automation and AI-driven control systems. Technologies such as Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) dynamically adjust motor speeds based on demand, preventing unnecessary power consumption. Meanwhile, smart sensors and remote monitoring platforms, like WEG’s Motion Fleet Management (MFM) with AI, are anticipating maintenance needs before failures occur, ensuring plants run at peak efficiency with minimal downtime.
To illustrate these advances, Rivas shared real-world examples. In Chile’s Mantoverde SWRO plant, the deployment of W22 motors and variable speed drives led
AI-driven process optimization and digital twins are improving brine management by reducing energy consumption, predicting maintenance needs
"High-efficiency motors and smart automation are revolutionizing desalination. AI-driven control systems are cutting energy use by up to 30%"
Jesús Rivas Water and Wastewater Global Manager at WEG
to significant energy cost reductions and lower CO₂ emissions, aligning with Chile’s broader sustainability objectives. Meanwhile, at Saudi Arabia’s Rabigh 3 IWP, one of the largest desalination plants in the world, WEG’s high-efficiency motors and advanced automation systems optimized performance so effectively that the company was awarded the Rabigh 4 contract, further cementing its role in the Middle East’s push for sustainable water infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Rivas painted a vision of desalination plants seamlessly integrating with renewable energy grids. High-efficiency motors will serve as the backbone of hybrid desalination systems, ensuring stability as plants shift toward solar, wind, and energy storage solutions. AI-powered digital twins will allow operators to simulate and fine-tune plant performance in real-time, adjusting energy use dynamically to minimize costs and maximize efficiency.
His final message was clear: desalination is not just about producing water — it’s about producing it in the smartest, most energy-efficient way possible. By embracing advanced motor technology, automation, and AI-driven optimization, the industry is moving toward a future where water security and energy sustainability go hand in hand.
Key takeaways: challenges, innovations, and the road to energy-efficient desalination The roundtable’s Q&A session provided valuable insights into the key challenges and opportunities for improving energy efficiency in desalination. Industry experts addressed critical topics such as energy recovery technologies, the role of digitalization, the feasibility of integrating renewables, and the future outlook for desalination processes.
One of the themes discussed was the widespread use of energy recovery devices (ERDs), which have significantly reduced the energy consumption of desalination plants over the past few decades. Experts emphasized that ERDs, such as pressure exchangers and isobaric devices, have become a standard in seawater desalination. However, for smaller-scale industrial plants and brackish water desalination, the feasibility of ERDs depends on factors such as pressure levels and flow rates.
Digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven optimization were also recognized as game-changers in the industry. While AI is already being used for predictive maintenance and process control, panellists suggested that future desalination plants may rely more heavily on autonomous operation, with AI-guided optimization of energy use and real-time adjustments to improve efficiency.
The potential for renewable energy integration was another topic of interest. The feasibility of geothermal energy in desalination was discussed, with experts noting that while it could be beneficial for increasing feedwater temperatures and improving membrane permeability, its economic viability remains uncertain. More broadly, panellists stressed that the successful integration of renewables such as solar and wind into desalination operations will require better energy storage solutions and smart grid integration to manage the intermittency of these energy sources.
When asked about the impact of stricter water quality regulations, particularly regarding PFAS and emerging contaminants, panellists emphasized that reverse osmosis already provides a high level of rejection for most pollutants. Therefore, they do not anticipate major cost increases in desalinated water due to new regulations.
When addressing future innovations, the panellists agreed that while incremental efficiency improvements will continue, there are no major breakthrough technologies on the immediate horizon that will drastically reduce energy consumption beyond current levels. Reverse osmosis (RO) technology has already reached a high degree of efficiency, approaching its thermodynamic limit, meaning that future gains will likely come from better system integration, smarter operational strategies, and digital advancements.
In closing, the experts underscored the importance of communication and public awareness in shaping desalination’s role in global water security. They emphasized that while desalination remains an energy-intensive process, its efficiency has improved dramatically, and ongoing technological advancements will continue to enhance its sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
The roundtable served as a meeting point for ideas and innovation, connecting water professionals with the latest advancements in desalination
Desalination is too energy-intensive
Modern RO plants consume less than 3 kWh/m³, approaching the theoretical limit of 1.06 kWh/m³.
future of desalination: a net-zero vision
The roundtable reinforced that desalination is entering a new era, where efficiency, sustainability, and policy alignment will define its trajectory. While energy consumption has dropped significantly over the past decades, the next step is ensuring that desalination is not just efficient, but entirely sustainable.
Renewable integration is inevitable, but desalination’s constant energy demand poses challenges for relying solely on solar and wind. Battery storage, smart grid integration, and power purchase agreements (PPAs) are emerging as solutions, with Spain and Australia already leading the charge in low-carbon desalination initiatives.
Desalination is not just about producing water — it’s about producing it in the smartest, most energy-efficient way possible
Brine discharge destroys marine life
Studies show salinity returns to normal just metres from discharge points.
dInnovation will continue to reshape desalination, with AI, digital twins, and machine learning driving real-time process optimization. Brine valorization technologies will further transform the industry, ensuring desalination is not just about water production but also resource recovery.
The panellists agreed that policy and investment will be just as crucial as technology. Governments and financial institutions must create strong incentives for energy-efficient desalination, while private sector players must invest in low-energy solutions to make net-zero desalination a reality.
Desalination is no longer just about making seawater drinkable — it is evolving into a cornerstone of sustainable water management. With the right investments, regulatory support, and technological breakthroughs, net-zero desalination is no longer an aspiration — it is within reach.
Desalination is too expensive
Desalinated water costs less than €0.001 per litre — comparable to other water sources.
Multi-Stage Flash (MSF) and Multi-Effect Distillation (MED) dominate, with energy consumption at 15-25 kWh/m³.
Reverse osmosis (RO) gains popularity, reducing energy use to 8-10 kWh/m³.
Introduction of Pelton wheels and Francis turbines as Energy Recovery Devices (ERDs), reducing energy consumption to 5-6 kWh/m³.
Advanced pressure exchangers push energy use below 3 kWh/m³.
AI-driven optimization and high-efficiency membranes bring plants closer to the theoretical limit of 1.06 kWh/m³.
RENEWABLE ENERGY INTEGRATION
Wind and solar are increasingly supplying desalination plants, with Spain and Australia leading.
SMART DIGITALIZATION
AI and machine learning optimize plant operations, cutting energy waste by 30%.
POLICY AND INVESTMENT
ENERGY RECOVERY OPTIMIZATION
ERDs recover up to 98% of waste energy, drastically reducing power consumption.
BRINE VALORIZATION
Turning waste into a revenue stream through mineral extraction.
Governments are pushing incentives for net-zero desalination, supporting hybrid energy integration.
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Water scarcity presents a growing challenge, particularly for industries and agriculture, the two largest consumers of this essential resource. Inefficient usage and waste further exacerbate the issue, making the adoption of sustainable and innovative solutions imperative. Water is no longer a luxury commodity; reasonable pricing structures exist, yet industrial and agricultural enterprises continue to face environmental constraints, brackish water challenges, and the need for decentralized solutions.
Traditionally, these sectors have relied on municipal water supplies. However, rising demand and resource limitations are prompting companies to take control of their water security by constructing their own treatment and desalination plants. Outsourcing water management services allows industries and farms to focus on core operations while ensuring a stable and reliable water supply.
Innovation is at the heart of overcoming the challenges associated with industrial and agricultural water consumption. Companies like Almar Water Solutions lead the way in integrating advanced technologies that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve sustainability. From cutting-edge desalination technologies to wastewater recycling and decentralized water treatment systems, innovation is revolutionizing the way industries and farms secure water resources.
The role of desalination in water security
Desalination has emerged as a vital solution for industries and agriculture operating in water-scarce regions. Reverse osmosis (RO) technology has reached a
Industries are making significant progress toward water security to safeguard their operations and business continuity
Water scarcity challenges industry and agriculture, driving innovative solutions. Almar Water Solutions provides tailormade, sustainable solutions that enhance water security, ensuring business continuity and operational resilience.
high level of maturity, proving its effectiveness in delivering fresh water from seawater and brackish sources. However, to meet increasing demands sustainably, the industry must now focus on research and development (R&D) to introduce disruptive alternatives that enhance efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
New innovations in desalination include brine concentration technologies, already in development in Texas, USA, and Saudi Arabia, which aim to reduce waste and maximize water recovery. Emerging techniques such as forward osmosis, electrochemical processes, and next-generation membrane materials are being explored to further enhance desalination performance. By investing in these advancements, companies can lower energy consumption, improve cost efficiency, and minimize ecological footprints.
Water solutions for agriculture
Agriculture remains one of the most water-intensive industries, often leading to significant inefficiencies. Climate change, population growth, and shifting consumption patterns further strain available water resources. To address these challenges, modern agricultural operations are turning to smart irrigation technologies, wastewater reuse, and agricultural desalination.
To address these challenges, modern agricultural operations are turning to innovative solutions such as:
J Smart irrigation systems: technologies like drip irrigation and IoT-based soil moisture sensors optimize water distribution, significantly reducing waste. These solutions are widely used in Israel, Spain, and California, where water efficiency is crucial for sustaining high-yield farming.
Almar Water Solutions leads the way in integrating tailor-made and decentralized solutions that enhance efficiency and improve sustainability
J Desalination for agriculture: solar-powered and hybrid desalination systems are proving effective in providing sustainable irrigation water, particularly in arid regions.
J Wastewater reuse: treated wastewater is increasingly being used for irrigation, reducing dependency on freshwater sources. Countries like Singapore and Australia have successfully implemented large-scale wastewater recycling programs for agriculture.
J Drought-resistant crops: advances in agricultural biotechnology are leading to the development of crops that require less water while maintaining high productivity.
By integrating these technologies, farmers can enhance productivity while safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Industrial water management and sustainability
Industries across various sectors have significantly advanced their water management strategies by integrating water recycling, brine management, and decentralized treatment solutions. These initiatives ensure a reliable water supply while promoting environmental responsibility. Companies that prioritize sustainable water practices not only mitigate risk but also enhance operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
The industrial sectors with the highest water consumption include thermoelectric power plants, which account for nearly 40% of total water withdrawals in some regions due to their reliance on water for cooling systems. The mining and metallurgy sector consumes large amounts of water for mineral extraction and processing, posing significant challenges in water reuse and treatment. The food and beverage industry depends on water for various stages of production, from crop irrigation to processing and cleaning. The pharmaceuticals and chemicals sector requires high-purity water for manufacturing processes, making advanced filtration and recycling technologies essential.
To enhance sustainability, industries are adopting innovative solutions such as Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems, which maximize water recovery and minimize waste by recycling all water used in industrial processes. Advanced water treatment technologies, including membrane bioreactors (MBR) and reverse osmosis, are becoming standard in treating and reusing industrial wastewater. Additionally, digital water management platforms powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are optimizing water consumption by monitoring usage in real time and identifying inefficiencies.
With extensive expertise in water infrastructure and management, Almar Water
Solutions has positioned itself as a global leader in delivering water solutions tailored to industrial needs. Two flagship projects exemplify its commitment to innovation: Zuluf and Centinela.
Zuluf: advancing water solutions in the O&G sector
The Zuluf project in Saudi Arabia consists of a water treatment plant with a 185,000 m³/day capacity, supporting water injection for the Zuluf Onshore Oil Facilities project in the Arabian Gulf, 240 km north of Dhahran.
Developed under a 25-year BOOT (Build-Own-Operate-Transfer) scheme,
it includes the design, development, financing, construction, commissioning, operation, maintenance, and transfer of ownership.
The Zuluf project is part of Almar Water Solutions’ long-term growth plan in Saudi Arabia. With Shuqaiq 3, its water treatment capacity will reach 635,000 m³/day, solidifying its position as a key player in the Saudi Arabian water market.
Centinela: ensuring water security for the mining industry
Located in Chile, the Centinela water transportation system is a strategic initiative involving the acquisition and op-
The Zuluf water treatment project in Saudi Arabia and Centinela in Chile exemplify Almar Water Solutions' leadership for industrial clients
eration of a 144 km water pipeline that transports 1,194 lps (110,678 m³/day) of seawater approximately 60 km north from the mining site at Michilla, where Centinela’s port is located.
To accommodate the expansion of the Nueva Centinela mining project, an additional 144 km pipeline with a 650 lps (56,333 m³/day) capacity is under construction. This expansion will support increased copper, molybdenum, and gold production while ensuring a sustainable and long-term water supply.
Developed under a BOOT scheme with a Take or Pay structure, the project consortium includes Almar Water Solutions and Transelec, with Bonatti and Sigdo Koppers as contractors. The first pipeline is operational, while the second is set to commence service in 2026, following a 20-month construction phase that will employ 1,500 local workers.
To safeguard infrastructure longevity, the Aguas Norte y Desarrollo (Nordes) consortium, comprising Almar Water Services Latam and Transelec, has implemented the SIAM corrosion control system, which focuses on:
J Pre-treatment: Advanced filtration, biocides, and corrosion inhibitors to protect pipeline integrity.
J Monitoring: Real-time tracking and laboratory analysis for proactive adjustments.
J Pipeline Cleaning (PIG): Internal cleaning to prevent deposits and improve system performance.
J Inspection Campaigns (ILI): Periodic integrity assessments using Smart PIGs to detect potential risks.
Shaping the future of industrial and agricultural water security
As industrial and agricultural sectors face increasing water challenges, the need for innovative and decentralized solutions becomes more critical. Almar Water Solutions is committed to driving progress through cutting-edge technologies, sustainable practices, and strategic partnerships. By investing in R&D and implementing forward-thinking projects, the company continues to pave the way for a more resilient and water-secure future.
The transition from reliance on municipal supplies to self-sufficient water management is a significant step forward. With desalination, brine concentration, and decentralized solutions at the forefront, industries can secure their operations while contributing to global water sustainability. Almar Water Solutions remains dedicated to leading this transformation, ensuring that water remains a reliable resource for industries and agriculture worldwide.
Z Olivia Tempest
A new research innovation offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical treatments, addressing boron contamination that exceeds safe drinking water limits set by the World Health Organization. To gain deeper insights into this pioneering research and its broader contributions to the field, we had the privilege of speaking with Professor Menachem Elimelech, the Nancy and Clint Carlson Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Rice University. Renowned for his lifelong commitment to advancing sustainable water solutions, Professor Elimelech continues to shape the global scientific and engineering landscape through his innovative research and leadership. In this interview, we explore his latest advancements in desalination. But before delving into his groundbreaking work, let’s take a moment to introduce Professor Menachem Elimelech.
Professor Menachem Elimelech is a globally recognized leader in environmental engineering, specializing in the water-energy nexus. His research focuses on energy-efficient desalination, wastewater reuse, and advanced materials for water purification and separation technologies. He is currently the Nancy and Clint Carlson Professor at Rice University, with joint appointments in the Departments of Civil & Environmental Engineering and Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering. Born in Israel to an immigrant family from Morocco, Professor Elimelech grew up in the city of Beer Sheva. He attended the Ben Shemen Youth Village, an agricultural boarding school, before earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He later pursued a Ph.D. in environmental engineering at Johns Hopkins University. Throughout his career, Professor Elimelech has authored over 580 peer-reviewed publications and is among the most cited
NANCY AND CLINT CARLSON PROFESSOR OF CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING AND CHEMICAL AND BIOMOLECULAR ENGINEERING AT RICE UNIVERSITY
“Reducing chemical usage is critical for minimizing the environmental impact of desalination plants”
Researchers, including Professor Menachem Elimelech, have developed a new carbon cloth electrode technology that enhances boron removal from seawater, a crucial step in desalination.
scholars in environmental and water quality engineering. His pioneering contributions to membrane-based desalination, water treatment, and nanomaterials have shaped both academia and industry. He has been honored with numerous prestigious awards, including the Eni Prize for Environmental Protection, and has been elected to national academies in the U.S., China, Australia, Canada, and Korea.
What are the most significant advancements in membrane technologies for desalination in recent years?
Advancements in the water sector are generally slow and incremental. Reverse
osmosis remains the dominant desalination technology and is likely to be so for years to come. Thin-film composite polyamide desalination membranes have been the gold standard since the early 1980s. While extensive research and activity are ongoing, it’s important to recognize that advancements are primarily incremental. There is an ongoing effort to displace thermal technologies for brine management with membrane-based technologies, but these remain at the pilot scale.
Conventional reverse osmosis membranes struggle to remove boron from seawater. Can you elaborate on the
limitations of current methods and why boron removal is a particularly difficult challenge?
Boron is toxic but ubiquitous in seawater. Boron removal is a significant challenge in desalination due to its small molecular size and neutral charge at typical seawater pH levels. Conventional reverse osmosis (RO) membranes are designed to remove charged ions and larger molecules, but boron, which exists as boric acid in seawater, can pass through these membranes more easily. Additionally, achieving the drinking water boron concentration standard (e.g., 0.5 mg/L in Israel) often requires more than single pass RO. For
There is an effort to displace thermal technologies for brine management with membrane-based technologies; these remain at the pilot scale
example, multiple-stage RO, which increase operational complexity and cost. The limitations of current methods include high energy consumption and the need for additional chemicals. These challenges highlight the need for more effective and sustainable solutions.
Recent research you were involved in highlights the use of carbon cloth electrodes for boron removal. What makes this material particularly effective, and how does it compare to conventional desalination techniques?
We leveraged bipolar membrane and boron-selective functional groups that introduce pH swing in our system, transferring boric acid to borate, and increase boron selectivity for the removal. These two reasons make our process particularly effective. Compared to conventional
desalination techniques, such as multi-stage RO and ion exchange resins, this approach is chemical-free, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly. The carbon cloth electrodes can be regenerated and reused, further enhancing their sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
The new electrode-based boron removal process is said to be more energy-efficient. Can you provide insights into how this method reduces energy consumption compared to traditional post-treatment techniques?
Our method reduces energy consumption from two aspects. The first one is that our system is highly selective for boron. The energy consumption of our system is proportional to the boron removal selectivity. The more selective the system is, the less energy is required. The second reason is that our system does not need pressurized water, saving a substantial amount of energy.
One of the key benefits of this new technology is its potential to reduce chemical usage in desalination. How does this impact the overall environmental footprint of desalination plants?
Reducing chemical usage is critical for minimizing the environmental impact of desalination plants. Traditional boron removal methods often involve chemicals like caustic soda or hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment and resin regeneration, which can lead to harmful discharges and increased operational costs. Our electrode-based process eliminates the need for these chemicals, reducing
"Boron removal is a significant challenge in desalination due to its small molecular size and neutral charge at typical seawater pH levels"
the risk of environmental contamination and lowering the plant’s overall carbon footprint. This aligns with the growing demand for sustainable desalination technologies that prioritize environmental stewardship while maintaining high water quality standards.
A study led by your lab and published in 2023 challenges the long-accepted solution-diffusion model of reverse osmosis. What were the key flaws in this model that led you to reevaluate its validity?
I have always found the solution-diffusion model for water transport unintuitive. In fact, many of its core assumptions are quite strange. For example, it assumes that hydrostatic pressure remains constant inside the membrane and then suddenly drops to zero at the exits, which is unphysical. It also claims that membranes have no pores, that water molecules are dispersed as single
particles within the membrane, and that water moves solely due to a difference in its concentration (a concentration gradient). Our 2023 study proved all of these assumptions to be incorrect. The solution-diffusion model fails to describe water transport in reverse osmosis membranes, whereas the pore-flow model accurately captures the underlying transport mechanism.
The research suggests that water moves through membranes in clusters rather than individual molecules. How does this new understanding impact the design and optimization of reverse osmosis membranes?
It is critically important to recognize that water moves through membrane pores via viscous flow, rather than by diffusing as individual molecules. Our research shows that frictional interactions and pore structure are the key factors governing water transport. This
"Conventional RO membranes are designed to remove charged ions and larger molecules, but boron can pass through these membranes more easily"
means that future membrane development should focus on optimizing pore connectivity, size distribution, and membrane-permeant interactions to enhance water flow while improving salt and pollutant rejection. By minimizing friction between the membrane and water, we can reduce the energy required for desalination, making water treatment technologies more efficient and cost-effective. Additionally, tailoring pore structures could improve the removal of specific contaminants, such as boron and small organic chemicals, which remain challenging to filter with current membranes. Ultimately, this
new understanding enables the development of membranes with precise separation selectivity, making them not only more efficient for desalination but also adaptable to a variety of water treatment challenges.
With global freshwater demand predicted to exceed supply by 40% by 2030, what role do you see innovative desalination technologies playing in addressing the global water crisis? Innovative desalination technologies will play a critical role in bridging the gap between freshwater supply and demand. As traditional water sources become in-
creasingly strained, desalination offers a reliable and scalable solution for producing freshwater from seawater, brackish water, and other unconventional water sources. While reverse osmosis (RO) membrane-based desalination remains the gold standard for seawater desalination, innovative technologies can find their niche in treating brackish water. For example, our study in 2021 has shown that electrodialysis outperforms RO in desalinating low salinity brackish water, offering advantages such as less fouling potential and less maintenance. These innovations not only expand the toolkit for addressing water scarcity but also provide tailored solutions for specific water sources and conditions.
What are the next steps in your research to further improve membrane technology and desalination processes?
We continue our research on brine management technologies (e.g., low-salt-rejection- reverse osmosis, LSRRO), which is a major issue for inland desalination plants because of the lack of options for brine disposal. We continue our work on developing ion selective membranes for selective separations. And we are expanding our work on the fabrication of specialized desalination membranes for LSRRO and ultrahigh-pressure operation. Lastly, we have just established the Rice Center for Membrane Excellence (RiCeME) to advance next-generation membrane materials and separation technologies for critical applications in energy, environmental sustainability, and chemical processing.
"It is important to recognize that water moves through membrane pores via viscous flow, rather than by diffusing as individual molecules"
As global water demand rises, efficient and sustainable water treatment is essential. WEG is driving this transformation with high-efficiency motors that reduce energy use, cut emissions, and improve performance. Through innovations like IE6, Permanent Magnet, and Axial Flux motors, WEG is shaping the future of water management.
The water industry is at the forefront of sustainability efforts, requiring innovative technologies that optimize energy consumption and reduce environmental impact. Electric motors play a crucial role in the operation of water treatment plants, desalination facilities, and wastewater management systems. With the continuous advancement of high-efficiency motors, the industry is moving towards a more sustainable future.
This article explores the latest innovations in electric motors for the water sector, compares efficiency levels, provides guidance on motor selection for different applications, and highlights cutting-edge products such as the W80 AXgen Axial Flux and W23 Sync+Ultra IE6 motors developed by WEG.
High-efficiency electric motors: the path to sustainability Water treatment and desalination plants are among the most energy-intensive facilities. Optimizing energy consumption in these plants is essential for cost reduction and sustainability. The latest
WEG’s IE3, IE4, IE5, and IE6 low-voltage motors achieve up to 98% efficiency, minimizing energy waste in critical applications
generation of high-efficiency electric motors significantly reduces energy losses, enhances performance, and contributes to the decarbonization of industrial processes. WEG has been at the forefront of sustainable engineering solutions, offering motors that comply with international efficiency standards while supporting circular economy principles by increasing recyclability, durability, and material efficiency.
Energy efficiency classification for electric motors has evolved significantly over the years. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has defined IE (International Efficiency) classes to standardize and improve motor efficiency. The transition from IE2 to IE6 motors leads to substantial energy savings, lower maintenance costs, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The shift from basic efficiency standards to ultra-premium efficiency solutions has brought significant improvements, reducing heat losses and improving operational reliability. WEG’s commitment to developing IE4, IE5, and IE6 motors aligns with global initiatives for energy conservation and industrial efficiency. High-efficiency motors play a crucial role in reducing energy demand. WEG’s IE3, IE4, IE5, and IE6 low-voltage motors achieve up to 98% efficiency, minimizing energy waste in critical applications. The company also offers Permanent Magnet (PM) motors, which
provide higher power density, making them particularly suited for desalination and water treatment facilities. Additionally, WEG has developed Axial and Transverse Flux Motors, a new genera-
tion of motors that use fewer materials while delivering greater efficiency. For high-pressure pump applications in desalination plants, WEG's high-voltage motors are tailored to meet precise
operating conditions, achieving efficiency levels above 97%. To maintain optimal efficiency even in demanding environments, WEG integrates advanced cooling systems, ensuring reliable motor operation in high-temperature settings. Energy efficiency classification for electric motors has evolved significantly over the years.
the right motor for water applications
Selecting the appropriate electric motor for a water treatment plant, desalination facility, or wastewater system requires a deep understanding of various factors. Load profile and operational conditions influence torque and speed characteristics, affecting performance and longevity. Voltage and frequency requirements must align with grid characteristics and variable frequency drives to maximize efficiency. Cooling methods also play a crucial role, as motors in these applications may require air or liquid cooling systems depending on installation conditions. The use of special coatings and corrosion-resistant materials ensures durability in high-humidity and chemically aggressive environments. By considering these aspects, plant operators can achieve greater reliability, energy savings, and overall system optimization.
WEG not only supplies high-efficiency motors but also works closely with engineers and EPC contractors from the early design phases of water infrastructure projects. By providing expert guidance in selecting the most suitable motors and equipment, WEG helps optimize energy consumption and ensures seamless integration into each specific application. This proactive involvement brings significant advantages, such as enhanced system performance, reduced operational costs, and increased reliability in the long term.
Through a combination of high-efficiency motors, automation systems, and digital monitoring solutions, WEG helps water facilities achieve their sustainability and
WEG collaborates with engineers and EPC contractors from the early design phases, ensuring optimized solutions for water facilities
efficiency goals. The company's extensive experience in desalination, wastewater treatment, and water supply systems positions it as a key partner in the sector’s transition toward greener and more cost-effective operations.
WEG’s W80 AXgen Axial Flux Motor and W23 Sync+Ultra IE6 Motor
The AX80 Axial Flux Motor represents a major breakthrough in electric motor technology. Unlike traditional induction motors, which require larger axial space, the AX80 utilizes a compact pancake design that enhances power density and optimizes raw material usage. This innovative approach results in ultra-compact structures that save space in installations where footprint is a constraint. With high power density and optimized electromagnetic design, the motor significantly reduces energy losses and ensures superior performance. In the water sector, where space and efficiency are critical, the AX80 presents an innovative solution, allowing for tandem assembly and improved operational efficiency.
The W23 Sync+Ultra IE6 Motor is WEG’s latest ultra-premium efficiency solution, designed to meet the most stringent energy efficiency standards. Offering the highest efficiency classification available, this motor reduces operational costs while enhancing thermal performance, ensuring a longer lifespan. Its advanced materials and optimized ro-
tor-stator design contribute to minimal energy losses. Additionally, the W23 Sync+Ultra IE6 motor seamlessly integrates with digital monitoring solutions, enabling predictive maintenance and real-time performance optimization. In applications such as pumping stations, desalination plants, and wastewater facilities, this motor provides unparalleled energy savings and reliability.
WEG’s high-efficiency motors have been successfully implemented in several major desalination and water treatment projects worldwide for many years. In Chile, WEG motors have played a key role in multiple desalination projects, including the Atacama Desalination Plant, which supplies 103,000 m³/d of water. For this project, WEG supplied 12 units of LV motors from the W50 line (355kW to 500kW, 4 poles) to KSB, along with 3 MV Soft Starters from the SSW7000 line (6.6kV) and a Step-Down Oil filled transformer (23kV//6.6kV - 13MVA) to GS Inima.
Additionally, at the Copiapó Desalination Plant (Puerto Punta Totoralillo), a 34,560 m³/d facility developed by Acciona for CAP S.A., WEG supplied MV motors from the MGF line, further demonstrating its commitment to providing energy-efficient and reliable solutions for large-scale desalination projects.
In Saudi Arabia, the Rabigh 3 Independent Water Plant (IWP), one of the largest reverse osmosis desalination facilities in the world, relies on WEG motors to ensure efficient and sustainable operation. The plant, producing 600,000 cubic meters of potable water per day, benefits from advanced automation and variable speed drive technology to minimize energy consumption.
As a result of its success in Rabigh 3, WEG has been awarded a contract for the Rabigh 4 IWP project. This reinforces the company’s reputation as a reliable provider of innovative motor solutions for large-scale desalination projects, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for sustainable water infrastructure.
As the water sector continues to embrace sustainability and digitalization, electric motor technology will play a key role in enhancing efficiency, reducing emissions, and improving system reliability. The adoption of IE5 motors, axial flux technology, and smart monitoring solutions will drive the next wave of innovation in the industry.
Through high-efficiency motors, automation, and monitoring, WEG helps water facilities achieve sustainability and efficiency
WEG remains committed to leading this transformation, offering cutting-edge electric motors that support global decarbonization goals while enhancing operational efficiency in water infrastructure.
The role of electric motors in the water sector extends beyond efficiency gains; it is about ensuring the sustainability and resilience of critical infrastructure. As global water demand grows and energy costs rise, the integration of high-efficiency motors, automation, and smart monitoring will become indispensable. Companies that embrace these technologies early will not only reduce operational costs but also contribute to a more sustainable future. WEG’s commitment to innovation and collaboration with industry stakeholders ensures that water facilities worldwide can achieve optimal performance while minimizing their environmental footprint. Looking ahead, the continued evolution of motor technology will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of water treatment and desalination plants, supporting the long-term security of this essential resource.
WEG’s leadership in sustainable motor technology
The IDRA Industry and Sustainability Award recognizes IDE’s work on the Sorek II SWRO facility
The IDRA Industry and Sustainability Award recognizes IDE’s pioneering work on the Sorek II facility, the company’s flagship seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant, in Israel. IDE Technologies has long been at the forefront of sustainable desalination, focusing on reducing energy consumption and minimizing environmental impact.
In recent years, IDE Technologies has developed a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology for seawater desalination plants. This advanced approach enables the company to measure carbon emissions across all operational stages, offering valuable insights through metrics such as kgCO2/m³. By doing so, IDE has established a leading industry standard for sustainability in desalination.
Leveraging this LCA methodology, IDE meticulously assessed and managed the environmental impact of its newly built Sorek II facility. Several cutting-edge technologies were incorporated to minimize carbon emissions. Among these innovations is a patented direct-steam-drive solution for high-pressure pumps, which eliminates inefficiencies associated with tra-
IDE Technologies, a global leader in water treatment solutions, has been honoured with the IDRA Industry and Sustainability Award for Lowest Carbon Footprint in Desalination.
ditional generators, motors, and variable frequency drives. As a result, the plant has successfully reduced power consumption and emissions.
Another breakthrough at Sorek II is the implementation of a carbon capture system that recycles CO2 emitted by the facility’s power plant. This captured CO2 is reintegrated into the remineralization process, effectively reducing transportation costs and resource consumption. Additionally, the plant produces Sodium Hypochlorite (NaClO) in-house for post-treatment processes, reducing reliance on external resources and cutting energy costs, aligning with the principles of a circular economy.
A key highlight of the Sorek II facility is its independent power station, which allows the plant to operate without being subject to peak or off-peak electricity grid fluctuations. These collective efforts have enabled Sorek II to lower its Specific Energy (SE) consumption by ap-
proximately 10% compared to similar high-efficiency desalination plants. With a daily production capacity of 672,000 m³ of potable water and a record-low water price, Sorek II demonstrates that environmental sustainability and economic efficiency can go hand in hand.
“IDE is committed to providing a more sustainable and secure water future for people across the globe and we are incredibly honoured to be recognized for these efforts,” said Alon Tavor, CEO, IDE Technologies Group. “Through meticulous planning, advanced hydraulic design, steam-driven high-pressure pumps, and in-house chemical production, Sorek II has reduced its carbon footprint by 30% compared to the Hadera benchmark. This reduction translates to over 120,000 tons of CO2 emissions, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in desalination.”
The IDRA Award for Lowest Carbon Footprint in Desalination is designed to recog-
nize organizations that make outstanding contributions to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable desalination practices. This category aims to inspire other industry players by spotlighting eco-friendly solutions that support climate action and a sustainable water future.
Desalination plays a crucial role in addressing global water scarcity, with two primary technologies dominating the industry: membrane-based reverse osmosis (RO) and thermal desalination, including Multi-Effect Distillation (MED) and Mechanical Vapor Compression (MVC). Reverse osmosis desalination relies on the principle of osmosis, using semi-permeable membranes to remove salt and impurities from seawater. In contrast, thermal desalination utilizes heat from power plants or refineries to evaporate and condense water, achieving purification.
IDE Technologies has been a pioneer in both thermal and membrane desalination solutions, delivering cost-effective water treatment solutions for more than six decades. With over 500 plants in 50 countries, IDE provides approximately 3 million m³ of high-quality water daily.
DAVID ESCOBAR
PARTNER AT SMART WATER MAGAZINE
Desalination has evolved from being a complementary technology to becoming a fundamental pillar of global water security. With population growth, climate crises, and increasing water stress, more and more countries are turning to this solution to ensure the supply of drinking water and industrial use. Its development over the past decades has been remarkable, positioning the sector as a solid and continuously growing alternative. Thanks to innovation and technological advancements, desalination is now more efficient, sustainable, and economically viable than ever. Its implementation has not only guaranteed access to water in regions facing water stress but has also fostered the development of resilient infrastructures capable of addressing climate change scenarios. Moreover, desalination has proven to be a critical tool in mitigating the effects of prolonged droughts, offering a reliable supply source when traditional water reserves are depleted.
One of the most notable aspects is the improvement in energy efficiency. Modern desalination has significantly reduced its electricity consumption through energy recovery devices, high-performance motors, and artificial intelligence applied to process optimization. This progress has lowered operating costs and made the technology increasingly accessible. Additionally, new trends point toward greater integration with renewable energy sources, positioning desalination as a solution aligned with global sustainability and decarbonization goals. In this regard, technological innovation continues to play a key role, with advances in membrane optimization, reduced chemical consumption, and improvements in the efficiency of pretreatment and water distribution processes. Ongoing research in nanomaterials and graphene-based membranes promises even greater energy efficiency gains, potentially reducing desalination costs further and making the process even more environmentally friendly.
The environmental impact, once a major concern, is being mitigated through innovative strategies. Brine management, once seen as a problem, is transforming into an opportunity through the valorization of its components. Extracting minerals such as magnesium, lithium, and bromine is opening new possibilities, enabling desalination to contribute not only to water production but also to strategic sectors like energy and technology. Moreover, controlled discharge technologies and optimized brine dispersion strategies help minimize their impact on marine ecosystems, ensuring that desalination processes remain environmentally responsible. Additionally, some researchers are exploring ways to generate energy from brine, potentially transforming a by-product into a valuable resource.
The link between desalination and renewable energy is becoming stronger. Modern desalination plants are increasingly relying on solar, wind, and green hydrogen as primary energy sources. This model not only reduces the carbon footprint but also contributes to energy stability, ensuring a resilient and sustainable water supply. In Australia and Spain, implementing green energy purchase agreements and integrating solar farms into desalination plants have demonstrated that it is possible
"Desalination will continue to evolve, becoming more efficient, sustainable, and accessible, ensuring that clean water is available to all"
to operate with minimal environmental impact. The combination of these technologies, along with innovations in energy storage, is paving the way toward fully emissions-neutral desalination. Furthermore, the development of new hybrid systems that combine desalination with thermal energy storage or battery systems is allowing for optimized water production based on energy availability, maximizing process efficiency. As energy storage technology continues to advance, the reliance on fluctuating renewable sources will become even more manageable, making desalination plants increasingly independent from fossil fuel-based energy grids.
Digitalization is transforming the desalination sector by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving water quality. Modern plants utilize remote monitoring, artificial intelligence,
and digital twins to predict and prevent failures, ensuring stable operations. Automation plays a crucial role in integrating desalination into regions with limited infrastructure, providing reliable water access with minimal staffing needs. AI-driven optimization is also reducing chemical reagent usage, improving both sustainability and cost efficiency. Additionally, blockchain-based water trading platforms are emerging, allowing utilities and industries to manage desalinated water distribution more effectively through smart contracts, further enhancing the sector’s economic viability.
The sector’s growth has driven new financing models, essential for its global expansion. Public-private partnerships have been key in developing major infrastructure, allowing businesses and governments to work together on desalination plant implementation. In regions like the Middle East, where desalination is critical, innovative financing schemes have enabled the rapid and efficient construction of megaprojects. Simultaneously, international financial institutions have started investing in green bonds and other instruments that facilitate investment in sustainable water infrastructure. This new financing landscape ensures that desalination can continue expanding without placing excessive financial burdens on consumers. Additionally, the development of water compensation mechanisms is enabling large corporations to contribute to desalination infrastructure financing as part of their sustainability strategies, generating benefits for both the industry and the environment. The emergence of private sector water utilities investing in desalination plants as part of diversified resource management strategies is also signaling a shift toward long-term commercial viability.
As technology advances and economies of scale make desalination more affordable, an increasing number of countries are incorporating it into their water planning. Spain has successfully consolidated a network of desalination plants that ensures supply in drought-prone regions, while Latin America and Africa are developing projects that improve water access in communities previously reliant on unreliable sources. In Asia, China is integrating desalination into its coastal development strategy, securing water resources for industry and its growing population. This global trend reinforces the idea that desalination is not only a viable solution but is becoming an essential component of sustainable water management worldwide. More importantly, the expansion of desalination is playing a role in stabilizing water prices and reducing dependency on overexploited groundwater reserves, helping to restore aquifers and improve long-term ecological balance.
Desalination has proven to be a solid, scalable, and adaptable solution across different contexts. Its evolution over the past decades confirms that it is not just a viable option but an indispensable tool for ensuring future water security. Its growth potential is immense, and its integration with renewable energy, digitalization, and new financing models positions it as one of the most promising solutions to address global
"The expansion of desalination is playing a role in stabilizing water prices and reducing dependency on overexploited groundwater reserves"
water challenges in the 21st century. Cooperation between the public and private sectors, along with investment in innovation, will be key to further driving its development and ensuring that desalinated water remains an accessible and sustainable resource for future generations. If we successfully consolidate these advancements, desalination will play an even more critical role in global water management, offering tangible solutions to a problem affecting millions of people worldwide and positioning itself as one of the most effective tools for ensuring water resilience in the 21st century.
The vision for the future is clear: desalination will continue to evolve, becoming more efficient, sustainable, and accessible, ensuring that clean water is available to all, regardless of geographic or climatic challenges.
Professor Omar Yaghi, originally from Jordan, has won the Great Arab Minds Award in Natural Sciences 2024 for revolutionizing materials science, with applications that open new frontiers in addressing global water scarcity challenges. Now a professor at UC Berkeley, Yaghi pioneered reticular chemistry, resulting in porous materials called Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs), Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs), and Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIFs). His work on MOFs has led to materials that can harvest water from air at low humidity, which is particularly beneficial for arid and desert regions. In addition, his research has influenced advancements in water
purification technologies. Beyond water, his research spans gas storage and clean energy. With 300+ publications and 45 patents, his innovations continue to shape global sustainability efforts. Yaghi also mentors future scientists and leads major research initiatives in Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. His achievements have earned him prestigious honours, including the Royal Society of Chemistry Sustainable Water Award, the Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water, the Wolf Prize in Chemistry, and the Albert Einstein World Award of Science. His work continues to pave the way for groundbreaking solutions in water security, sustainability, and clean energy.
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND WASTEWATER PRACTICE DIRECTOR AT CAROLLO ENGINEERS
The U.S. EPA’s recent draft risk assessment (DRA) for PFOA and PFOS in biosolids has ignited discussions on biosolids management and its impact on utilities. While the EPA has previously used risk assessments to shape regulatory guidance, key differences in this DRA’s development have raised concerns. Academic experts and industry organizations will submit feedback, which may lead to modifications before finalization. However, the current draft introduces challenges that require an accurate understanding of the DRA and proactive planning.
The DRA is not a regulation and does not establish enforceable limits. Historically, risk assessments and risk management were considered together before regulations were proposed. The risk management analysis is still pending, indicating that national regulatory limits may not be imminent.
The DRA focuses on exposure risks for hypothetical "farm families"– those almost exclusively consuming meat, eggs, dairy, crops, and water from land where biosolids were applied. It does not reflect risks to the general public which has diverse food sources or the national food supply, as biosolids are applied to less than 1% of available U.S. agricultural land (National Research Council, Biosolids Applied to Land: Advancing Standards and Practices, 2002). EPA modeled exposure pathways and scenarios where biosolids with 1 part per billion PFOA and PFOS were applied to farmland once annually for 40 years. The assessment assumed that a farm family subsisted almost entirely on food and water from the farm for 10 years. Based on these assumptions, the EPA determined that some modeled scenarios exceeded acceptable health risk thresholds for the farm family.
As of 2022, 56% of biosolids were land-applied, 3% monofilled, 16% incinerated, 24% landfilled, and 1% managed by other means. The DRA did not quantify risks from incineration but acknowledged likely risks. Landfilling was also excluded from the analysis, despite a generation of PFAS-containing leachate. In summary, the DRA indicated that 75% of utilities’ management options represent risks from PFOS or PFOA under some scenarios and the risk associated with landfilling remains unassessed. So what can utilities do?
Utilities can prepare now by focusing on data collection and risk mitigation. Recommended actions include conducting PFAS sampling in biosolids, updating industrial user inventories for better source control, and working with biosolids management partners to minimize risks from land application. Strategic planning is essential as states and localities may impose restrictions before federal regulations emerge. Some farmers may also refuse biosolids due to perceived risks. Utilities should explore diversified management strategies, including regional partnerships for centralized processing and advanced thermal technologies that show promise for PFAS destruction. However, most of these technologies are unproven at scale long-term and require significant investment, making feasibility assessments and discussions with regulators and stakeholders critical.
"The draft risk assessment indicated that 75 per cent of utilities’ management options represent risks from PFOS or PFOA under some scenarios"
Clear communication with stakeholders — including regulators, legislators, and farmers — is crucial. While industrial solids have caused harm, it is essential to recognize that farmers and utilities are PFAS receivers, not producers. Municipal biosolids are a valuable resource for soil enrichment, supporting sustainable and cost-effective agriculture. Risk minimization strategies — applying biosolids to non-grazing fields and avoiding areas prone to surface runoff — can help maintain these benefits.
Balancing environmental protection with practical implementation is key. Collaboration among all stakeholders will be essential to develop sustainable biosolids management solutions. As the industry adapts to evolving PFAS regulations, maintaining open dialogue and sharing best practices will be crucial for navigating this complex landscape.
GEIR NORDEN - R&D SPECIALIST AT FILTRALITE
JARAN WOOD - ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGER AT FILTRALITE
“Switching
is a seamless process that brings both technical and operational benefits”
Filtralite’s high-porosity filter media outperforms sand, reducing energy use, CO2 emissions, and costs. Its durability enhances sustainability in water treatment, enabling longer filter runs, lower maintenance, and improved efficiency across various applications.
Filtralite is proud to present an interview with Geir Norden, R&D specialist, and Jaran Wood, Environmental Manager, about how Filtralite helps to decrease CO 2 emissions during the filtration stage in drinking water and wastewater plants, but also in pre-treatment for desalination. They highlight how Filtralite will help to improve plant performance, due to its high porosity, low weight, and unbeatable longevity.
What is the main advantage of Filtralite compared to sand from a filtration and environmental perspective?
Geir Norden: The main advantage of Filtralite compared to sand lies in several key aspects of both filtration and environmental impact. Filtralite has a high retention capacity, which results in longer filter runs and less frequent backwashing. This not only reduces water wastage by minimizing the need
"Filtralite’s high porosity and specific surface area enhance filtration efficiency, enabling it to capture more contaminants than sand"
for withdrawals from the natural environment, but also lowers energy consumption.
Its high porosity and specific surface area further enhance filtration efficiency, enabling Filtralite to capture more contaminants than sand. The low density of Filtralite allows for quick expansion
during backwash, making the cleaning process more efficient.
Jaran Wood: Additionally, Filtralite enables high water filtration velocity, thus requiring fewer filters and smaller plant sizes, potentially reducing infrastructure requirements by up to 50%. This translates into a significantly lower carbon footprint and reduced environmental impact compared to sand-based filtration systems.
Are there additional benefits?
J.W.: Yes, there are additional benefits of using Filtralite compared to sand, particularly in terms of both operational and capital expenditure (OPEX and CAPEX).
In terms of OPEX, Filtralite reduces energy consumption due to its efficient filtration properties, which require less energy for backwashing. Additionally, the need for fewer backwashes results in reduced water consumption, further lowering operational costs.
From a CAPEX perspective, Filtralite leads to cost savings by requiring smaller pumps and other equipment, thanks to its high retention capacity and porosity. This reduces the need for larger infrastructure, thereby lowering capital investment costs.
G.N.: Furthermore, Filtralite’s ability to extend filter runs and reduce backwashing enables the construction of more compact plants, which results in smaller facilities with reduced overall costs. The higher operational efficiency also leads to increased production capacity and a better return on investment, making Filtralite a more cost-effective option compared to sand.
What are the primary sources of CO2 emissions in the current sand filtration process?
J.W.: The primary sources of CO2 emissions in the current sand filtration process stem from several stages of the sand’s lifecycle. First, the extraction of sand involves significant energy consumption, as it requires large-scale mining operations, often using heavy machinery that emits CO2. Second, transporting the sand to filtration facilities generates additional emissions, particularly since sand is much heavier than alternatives like Filtralite, increasing the carbon footprint associated with its transport.
Another factor contributing to CO2 emissions is the depletion of sand resources worldwide. As easily accessible sources become scarce, more energy-intensive extraction methods are required, further exacerbating environmental impact. In contrast, Filtralite, with its lighter weight,
"In terms of OPEX, Filtralite reduces energy consumption due to its efficient filtration properties, which require less energy for backwashing"
helps reduce transport-related emissions and is more sustainable as a resource, addressing some of the challenges posed by diminishing sand availability.
How do Filtralite’s emissions compare to sand?
G.N.: Despite the higher CO2 emissions during production, the weight of the sand has even larger impacts, including the need for stronger backwashes, which require more power and thus bigger pumps, with more frequent backwash and a larger filtration area.
J.W.: In addition, the clay resources compared to filtration sand are close to unlimited, and even more, with 1 m3 of raw clay, we are producing 5 m3 of finished product.
How does the lifespan of Filtralite compare to sand in terms of reducing material replacement and associated emissions?
J.W.: The lifespan of Filtralite is significantly longer compared to sand, which contributes to reducing material replacement and associated emissions over time. While Filtralite may have a higher initial carbon footprint due to its production process, the longer lifespan more than compensates for this in the mid to long term.
Filtralite typically lasts around 30 years, whereas sand generally has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Other materials, like anthracite, can last even less, often between 2 to 10 years. This longer longevity means that Filtralite does not need to be replaced as frequently, reducing the amount of material required over time and consequently lowering the CO2
"Filtralite, with its lighter weight, helps reduce transport-related emissions and is a more sustainable resource than sand"
"From a CAPEX perspective, Filtralite leads to cost savings by requiring smaller pumps and other equipment, lowering capital investment costs"
emissions associated with material replacement and transportation.
After approximately two years, the energy and water savings resulting from Filtralite’s higher filtration efficiency and reduced backwashing start to outweigh the initial CO2 emissions. Over time, these operational savings — combined with Filtralite’s durability — lead to a net reduction in CO2 emissions.
G.N.: In fact, the first Filtralite produced 30 years ago is still in operation, demonstrating its remarkable longevity and further emphasizing the environmental benefits of reduced material replacement. Thus, while Filtralite may initially have a higher environmental impact, its extended lifespan and greater operational efficiency lead to significant savings in both energy and CO2 emissions.
Does Filtralite require less frequent maintenance, and how does that affect overall emissions?
G.N.: You have to change the filter media less often, meaning less maintenance of the filters. Also, there is less need for new filter material, and thus less transport and less extraction.
Does using Filtralite impact energy consumption during the filtration process? If so, how?
J.W.: Yes, Filtralite requires less maintenance compared to sand due to its higher
efficiency and longer lifespan. This leads to reduced energy use for backwashing and fewer media replacements, cutting down on transportation emissions and the need for raw material extraction. Overall, Filtralite results in lower CO2 emissions in the mid-term, as it reduces both operational and material-related impacts over time.
How do transportation distances and methods contribute to differences in CO2 emissions?
G.N.: Transportation distances and methods contribute to differences in CO2 emissions by making Filtralite more efficient to transport than sand. Filtralite’s lighter weight allows trucks to be fully loaded, whereas sand trucks may be only 1/4 full due to weight limits, requiring more trips and increasing emissions. Sand is not always locally available, meaning it often needs to be transported over long distances, which adds to CO2 emissions. Filtralite, however, promotes intermodal, efficient transportation methods (like rail or ships) to further reduce its environmental footprint.
How does better performance (if applicable) translate to environmental benefits, like reduced chemical usage?
J.W.: Better performance, like Filtralite’s high filtration efficiency, can translate into significant environmental benefits, including reduced chemical usage. For example, Filtralite can replace certain chemicals used in traditional filtration processes by supporting biofiltration in drinking water treatment. This is particularly beneficial for removing contaminants like manganese and iron. By reducing the need for chemical treatments, Filtralite helps minimize chemical waste, energy consumption, and environmental pollution, leading to a more sustainable water treatment process.
Are there any technical or logistical challenges when switching from sand to Filtralite?
G.N.: There are no challenges when switching from sand to Filtralite. In terms of retrofitting existing plants, the increase in pollutants and organic matter in the water due to climate change and human activities makes Filtralite a better
"While Filtralite may have a higher initial carbon footprint than sand due to its production process, the longer lifespan compensates for this"
choice, as it handles these contaminants more effectively. When you upgrade from sand to Filtralite, the transition is straightforward, and the switch comes with direct advantages like improved filtration efficiency and longer lifespan. Overall, switching to Filtralite is a seamless process that brings both technical and operational benefits.
Are there any certifications or standards that validate Filtralite’s environmental claims?
J.W.: Yes, Filtralite’s environmental claims are validated through several recognized certifications and standards. Specifically, ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and ISO 9001 (Quality Management) are in place, ensuring that Filtralite meets rigorous environmental and quality standards, and in the future, we may be able to provide project specific EPDs for the filter medium. Also, to ensure the best water quality, we submit
the filter medium to stringent tests for all types of contaminants through certified third parties.
Additionally, Saint-Gobain is committed to reducing CO2 emissions by 2050, reflecting their dedication to sustainability. The company also has a strong commitment to social responsibility, further reinforcing the environmental and ethical benefits of using Filtralite.
These certifications and commitments validate Filtralite’s environmental impact and demonstrate its alignment with global sustainability goals and Saint-Gobain’s goal to “make the world a better home”.
"Filtralite results in lower CO2 emissions in the midterm, as it reduces both operational and materialrelated impacts over time"
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept — it is actively reshaping the water industry, revolutionizing operations, efficiency, and sustainability. From predictive maintenance in utilities to AI-driven water quality forecasts, the integration of machine learning, generative AI, and automation is enabling smarter decision-making and real-time problem-solving.
In this section, we highlight the most transformative AI-powered initiatives currently unfolding across the global water sector.
VEOLIA & MISTRAL AI
Talking to the Water Plant
Area: France & Global
Companies: Veolia, Mistral AI
Technology: Large Language Model (LLM) for industrial site monitoring
Timeline: February 2025
Veolia has partnered with Mistral AI to launch the world’s first industrial AI assistant for water, waste, and energy plants. This LLM-powered system allows operators to “talk” to the plant in real time, accessing critical data, optimizing maintenance, and improving efficiency. This interactive AI platform enhances plant safety, water management, and operational transparency — bringing the industry closer to Industry 5.0.
Key Benefits:
J Instant access to knowledge for technicians and operators.
J AI-powered decisionmaking for energy efficiency and waste recycling.
J Improved predictive maintenance, reducing system failures and optimizing performance.
xAI & CERAFILTEC
AI Water Solutions for the World’s Largest Data Centre
Area: USA
Companies: xAI, CERAFILTEC
Technology: AI-driven ceramic membrane bioreactor (MBR)
Timeline: Completion 2025
xAI, the artificial intelligence company founded by Elon Musk, is constructing the largest ceramic membrane bioreactor (MBR) in the world to supply cooling water to its Memphis, Tennessee supercomputing data centre. The facility will recycle 49.2 MLD (13.0 MGD) of municipal wastewater, showcasing how AI and membrane filtration can optimize industrial water reuse.
Why It Matters:
J AI-enabled water recycling reduces strain on drinking water resources.
J Highly efficient ceramic membranes extend operational life and reduce waste.
J Sets a sustainability precedent for the tech industry.
GWF & MICROSOFT
AI Against Water Losses
Area: Global Companies: GWF, Microsoft Technology: AI-powered non-revenue water (NRW) detection
Timeline: Active 2025
With water losses from pipe leaks and non-revenue water reaching 30-40% worldwide, GWF and Microsoft are deploying AI-driven pressure and leakage analysis to help utilities reduce water losses by 35% without major infrastructure replacement.
Global Impact:
J Real-time AI analytics optimize water distribution networks.
J Pre-emptive leak detection saves millions of litres of drinking water.
J Already deployed in cities across South Africa, UK, Europe, and the USA.
AI for River Health
Area: United Kingdom Companies: Additive Catchments, Capgemini
Technology: Catchment
Monitoring as a Service (CMaaS®)
Timeline: Scaling from 2025
With only 14% of UK rivers meeting good ecological health standards, AI-powered river monitoring is critical. Additive Catchments and Capgemini are launching a nationwide AI-driven sensor network to analyse pollution, predict contamination risks, and improve regulatory compliance.
How It Works:
J AI-based virtual sensors reduce monitoring costs and carbon footprint.
J Predictive analytics detect pollution sources before they spread.
J Supports UK’s £100 billion investment in water infrastructure (AMP8 2025-2030).
With AI already transforming leak detection, contract management, wastewater treatment, and operational efficiency, the next phase will bring more automation, improved predictive analytics, and deeper integration across global utilities. Stay
>> AI-powered climate adaptation tools for extreme weather events.
>> More AI-driven desalination plants optimizing energy consumption.
>> Autonomous plant monitoring systems using LLMs and AI bots.
>> In tegration of AI with IoT sensors to track water quality in real time.
AI-Powered Contract Management
Area: France & Global Companies: Palantir Technologies, SAUR Group Technology: Generative AI for contract and compliance monitoring
Timeline: Deployment 2025
Managing complex, multiyear water contracts is a massive challenge. SAUR is leveraging Palantir Foundry and AI Platform (AIP) to digitally transform contract analysis, compliance tracking, and risk management.
J AI-assisted regulatory compliance, reducing legal risks.
J Faster contract processing, freeing up resources for operations.
J Scalable AI system, with over 300+ SAUR users onboarded in months.
University of Vermont & NOAA
Area: United States
Institutions: University of Vermont, NOAA, US Geological Survey
Technology: AI-enhanced National Water Model
Timeline: Live testing 2025
For the first time, AI is being used to predict water quality threats across the United States. Researchers from UVM and NOAA have modified the National Water Model to forecast not just stream flow, but also turbidity and pollution risks.
J Utilities can anticipate water quality issues before storms hit.
J AI-powered forecasting prevents supply disruptions in cities.
J Adaptable model can scale nationwide to monitor water contaminants.
DEWA’s Generative AI Roadmap
Area: Dubai, UAE
Institution: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
Technology: Generative AI for utility management
Timeline: Multi-phase rollout from 2025
DEWA is incorporating AI-powered automation tools such as Microsoft Copilot, SAP AI, and predictive analytics to enhance energy and water utility efficiency in Dubai.
Highlights:
J Real-time AI-driven monitoring reduces operational costs.
J Automated customer service (ChatGPT, AI assistants) for improved response times.
J Predictive maintenance reduces failures, optimizing water networks.
SR. DIRECTOR, WATER LIFECYCLE PRODUCT MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING, AUTODESK
“AI in the water sector is evolving at a rapid pace and it has the potential to transform how we manage critical events”
In an era where the water sector faces mounting challenges, digital transformation has become a crucial driver of resilience and efficiency. From aging infrastructure to climate change and resource scarcity, utilities and water professionals worldwide are seeking innovative solutions to modernize their operations.
Z Alejandro Maceira
utodesk stands at the forefront of the water sector’s transformation, offering cutting-edge digital tools designed to enhance decision-making, optimize resource management, and future-proof infrastructure.
In this exclusive interview, Smart Water Magazine speaks with Keith Muller, a seasoned expert with over 15 years of experience in the water sector, who recently joined Autodesk to help lead its vision for the industry. With a deep passion for driving technological innovation in drinking water, wastewater, and industrial water management, Keith brings invaluable insights into how Autodesk is shaping the future of water infrastructure.
Throughout our conversation, we explore key themes that define the current landscape of water management. Keith Muller, Sr. Director, Water Lifecycle Product Management and Engineering at Autodesk, shares his perspectives on the most pressing challenges facing the industry and how Autodesk’s digital ecosystem — powered by AI, IoT, and cloud-based technologies — is empowering utilities to transition from legacy systems to more efficient, data-driven operations. We also delve into Autodesk’s commitment to sustainability and resilience, examining real-world applications where its tools are making a tangible impact, from flood resilience projects in Charleston to advanced urban water management initiatives in Amsterdam.
As water professionals navigate an increasingly complex landscape, this discussion provides a forward-looking perspective on how digital tools are revolutionizing the sector. Join us as we uncover
"WATER IS BECOMING AS CRITICAL AN ISSUE AS CO2, WITH A RISING DEMAND TO SECURE THIS PRECIOUS RESOURCE, PARTICULARLY IN THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR"
Autodesk’s role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient water future with Keith Muller at the helm.
What are the main challenges currently facing the water sector, and how can digital tools help overcome them?
The water sector faces a variety of challenges, such as aging infrastructure, the impacts of climate change, and growing resource scarcity that puts a strain on utilities and water systems. Digital tools help address these issues by providing water professionals with accurate, real-time data for better decision-making, enabling predictive maintenance, and facilitating more efficient resource management. Our customers feel the urgency of improving resiliency across their systems and digital tools are a key step in helping them create more efficient and collaborative end-to-end workflows.
For example, Autodesk’s AI-enabled modeling and simulation tools empower utilities to precisely model and visualize stormwater systems under various scenarios, enhancing their ability to predict and prepare for extreme weather events. Real-time monitoring provides them with dynamic
"THE WATER SECTOR FACES CHALLENGES LIKE AGING INFRASTRUCTURE, CLIMATE CHANGE, AND RESOURCE SCARCITY, STRAINING UTILITIES AND WATER SYSTEMS"
"DIGITAL TOOLS PROVIDE REAL-TIME DATA, ENABLING PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE AND BETTER DECISION-MAKING TO IMPROVE EFFICIENCY AND RESILIENCE"
views of water levels and system performance, and asset management tools help them assess and prioritize maintenance needs, ensuring their infrastructure remains reliable.
How is Autodesk supporting utilities transitioning from legacy systems to cloud-based solutions? How does Autodesk’s subscription model support this adoption?
We support utilities through every step of the transition process, from initial assessment and planning to implementation and ongoing support. Utilities will often find that moving into the cloud makes optimizing their assets a more collaborative process and reduces the computational burden on their local systems. This also allows them to simulate more alternatives and operating scenarios than ever before, providing a deeper understanding of the impacts of uncertain weather events.
Our solutions are designed to be user-friendly and scalable, ensuring that utilities can adopt new technologies with minimal disruption to their operations, and our variety of subscription options are also built to ensure flexibility based on our customers’ needs.
How does Autodesk define sustainability and resilience in the context of water infrastructure?
In the context of water infrastructure, sustainability means designing systems that use resources efficiently, reduce environmental impact, and can be maintained over the long term. We also want to ensure that today’s water systems are resilient –that they can withstand and quickly recover from adverse conditions like system failures or extreme weather. Autodesk’s approach combines both concepts by promoting practices and technologies that enhance efficiency, reduce environmental
"MOVING TO THE CLOUD OPTIMIZES ASSETS, FOSTERS COLLABORATION, AND REDUCES COMPUTATIONAL BURDENS ON LOCAL SYSTEMS, IMPROVING EFFICIENCY"
impact, and ensure infrastructure can adapt to changing conditions. This is seen through the work of customers like the City of Fayetteville, which leveraged Autodesk technology to map and model watersheds that would bring improved flood resiliency to the community.
What Autodesk technologies help utilities improve operational efficiency, ensure real-time monitoring, and balance modernization with environmental responsibility?
Autodesk technologies like InfoDrainage and InfoWorks ICM improve operational efficiency by providing detailed modeling and simulation capabilities. InfoDrainage empowers engineers to deliver sustainable, cost-effective, and compliant drainage designs, while InfoWorks ICM allows them to model complex hydraulic and hydrologic elements quickly in a collaborative environment. For improved operational analytics and asset management, Autodesk offers Info360 Asset, Info360 Insight, and Info360 Plant, which allow users to build collaborative workspaces and leverage real-time data through digital twins. Since our water tools fit into Autodesk’s ecosystem, they can also be connected to other infrastructure solutions with integrations in Civil 3D. By integrating environmental considerations into the design and planning processes, these technologies help utilities modernize their infrastructure while minimizing environmental impact.
Are there any notable customer examples of these technologies at work?
Absolutely, we’ve seen several customers use Autodesk’s technology to create more sustainable and resilient water infrastructure. In Charleston, North Carolina, engineers leveraged InfoDrainage to fortify the city’s seawall and improve its
drainage capacity, helping protect the surrounding community from future flooding events. In Amsterdam, InfoWorks ICM helped optimize the design of the RESILIO project’s blue-green roofs. These roofs combine vegetation and water management systems to retain and slowly release stormwater, reducing the risk of urban flooding. Ultimately, InfoWorks ICM models helped determine that, depending on the suitability of the roofs, 11-19% of the water volume that floods the streets during extreme rainfall can be prevented.
What role do AI, IoT, and cloud-based technologies play in shaping the future of the water sector?
AI in the water sector is evolving at a rapid pace and it has the potential to transform how we manage critical events like flooding. By bringing together data from rainfall forecasts, IoT sensors, and infrastructure models, AI can provide utilities with a single, unified view of their systems ahead of real-time.
For example, AI-enabled systems can predict water level changes with precision based on real-time rainfall data and modeled system capacity. This allows operators to take preemptive actions such as redirecting flows, putting temporary systems in place, or issuing early warnings to communities at risk. It’s not just about responding quickly; it’s about responding accurately, which can make all the difference in critical moments. Cloud-based technologies are essential to this vision, as they facilitate data integration and accessibility, ensuring stakeholders have up-to-date information for their decision-making.
We’ve also already seen AI play a role in proactive pipeline maintenance – VAPAR’s AI Integration with Info360 Asset leverages AI to automate
"AI IS TRANSFORMING WATER MANAGEMENT BY COMBINING RAINFALL FORECASTS, IOT SENSORS, AND INFRASTRUCTURE MODELS INTO A UNIFIED SYSTEM"
pipeline condition assessments, improving efficiency, accuracy, and enabling utilities to prioritize repairs based on risk and condition.
What advice would you give to water professionals looking to future-proof their operations?
The more water professionals can move toward tools that enable proactive action, the more ‘future-proof’ their operations will be. For example, AI predictive modeling opens a door to a future where flood control is even further driven by foresight. By adopting cloud-connected digital tools, utilities will be able to better simulate potential scenarios, identify vulnerabilities, and implement preventative measures before an event occurs.
I’d also encourage water professionals to evaluate the impact that technologies can have endto-end across the entire lifecycle. We see many utilities operating on older versions of their technology, when upgrading to more current versions can help them take advantage of new tools. More updated technologies will also be able to provide them with a fuller picture of their networks.
"FUTURE-PROOFING OPERATIONS REQUIRES CLOUD-CONNECTED TOOLS TO SIMULATE SCENARIOS, IDENTIFY VULNERABILITIES, AND IMPLEMENT PREVENTATIVE MEASURES"
Microsoft launches a new data centre design that avoids the use of water for cooling
Microsoft is pioneering next-generation data centres that require no water for cooling, advancing its goal of becoming water-positive by 2030. This effort is part of the company’s broader sustainability strategy. In August 2024, Microsoft introduced a data centre design optimized for AI workloads that eliminates the need for water in cooling processes. Traditionally, data centres have relied on water-intensive evaporative cooling to prevent servers from overheating. However, Microsoft’s innovative chip-level and closed-loop liquid cooling solutions now allow for precise temperature control without requiring water evaporation.
By adopting closed-loop liquid cooling, Microsoft can continuously recirculate water between servers and chillers, drastically reducing freshwater demand. While some water is still required for administrative purposes, this design shift is expected to save over 125 million litres annually per data centre. As water scarcity becomes an increasing global concern, this transition supports both environmental goals and regulatory expectations for corporate responsibility.
In an era where environmental sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, Microsoft has emerged as a leader in transforming data centre operations to minimize water consumption.
Microsoft measures efficiency using the Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) metric, which tracks total water consumption relative to IT energy use. Over the past few years, the company has significantly improved its WUE, reporting an average of 0.30 L/kWh in the last fiscal year—a 39% improvement since 2021 and an 80% reduction since the early 2000s. With next-generation cooling, WUE is expected to approach near zero, helping Microsoft meet its long-term sustainability commitments.
One challenge in eliminating water-based cooling is the increased power demand. Evaporative cooling traditionally helps minimize energy consumption, but Microsoft’s advanced chip-level cooling mitigates this issue by operating at higher temperatures while leveraging high-efficiency economizing chillers. Although energy use may rise slightly, the company’s ongoing innovations focus on more targeted cooling
strategies that improve efficiency over time. Microsoft remains committed to refining these technologies to ensure that water conservation does not come at the cost of excessive energy use.
Microsoft is already implementing these sustainability measures. Pilot projects in Phoenix, Arizona, and Mt. Pleasant, Wisconsin, will trial zero-water cooling by 2026, with full-scale deployment expected by late 2027. Starting in August 2024, all new Microsoft data centres will integrate this advanced cooling technology, setting a new industry standard. Additionally, Microsoft is reducing its reliance on freshwater resources through conservation initiatives and alternative water sources. In high-waterstress regions, the company employs localized strategies such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater reuse to minimize environmental impact. This tailored approach helps address water scarcity issues unique to each location.
Beyond reducing its consumption, Microsoft has committed to replenishing more water than it uses globally by 2030. The company is investing in a broad range of water restoration projects, from watershed conservation to leak detection in municipal water systems. A key example is Microsoft’s partnership with FIDO, a firm specializing in AI-powered leak detection, which is helping to prevent water loss in regions such as Phoenix, Arizona, and Querétaro, Mexico. Additionally, Microsoft collaborates with local governments and water agencies to support infrastructure projects that improve water access and community resilience.
Looking ahead, Microsoft continues to scale its water-efficient technologies, expand replenishment programs, and advocate for sustainable water policies. As AI and cloud computing drive rising demand for data infrastructure, balancing innovation with environmental responsibility is critical. Microsoft’s investment in water-free data centres demonstrates that large-scale technology operations can be reimagined with sustainability at their core.
As global climate challenges intensify, digital innovation is playing a crucial role in water management. Autodesk Water, in collaboration with Smart Water Magazine, has been at the forefront of these discussions, hosting the Autodesk Water Webinar Series.
The Autodesk Water Webinar Series has served as a dynamic platform, bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and professionals to explore how data-driven solutions, digital twins, and nature-based strategies are transforming the water sector. This article delves into the latest three webinars, each addressing critical advancements in urban flood resilience, digital twin technology, and sustainable stormwater management.
Leveraging sewer network data for urban flood resilience
In February 2025, Autodesk Water in collaboration with Smart Water Magazine, hosted a webinar session titled "How Sewer Network Data Can Impact Urban Flood Modelling", addressing the growing complexity of flood prediction in urban environments. With increasing extreme weather events, the accuracy and completeness of sewer network datasets have never been more critical.
The session featured expert insights from Paolo Tamagnone, Flood Modeller and Scientist at RSS-Hydro, and Caryn Novak, Civil and Environmental Engineer at Autodesk Water. They underscored how missing or outdated infrastructure data can distort flood model accuracy, while inconsistent formats create integration challenges.
Tamagnone’s case study in Differdange, Luxembourg, demonstrated that
even with up to 50% missing drainage network data, reliable flood predictions could still be obtained for extreme rainfall events. However, neglecting key elements such as main collectors or surface inlets led to substantial errors. His research incorporated high-resolution LiDAR data, detailed land use classifications, and updated cadastral information to refine the model. Calibration was achieved using reported flood incidents rather than real-time sensor data.
Novak introduced Autodesk’s InfoWorks ICM as a sophisticated integrated catchment modelling tool, highlighting its ability to support municipalities in planning for extreme weather, optimizing infrastructure investments, and reducing downtime. The discussion reinforced that while complete network information is ideal, accurate flood modelling remains achievable through strategic simplifications and high-resolution urban datasets.
A dynamic Q&A session followed, exploring topics such as the impact of incomplete sewer data, the validation of models in the absence of sensor data, and best practices for integrating as-built and topographic data from multiple sources. Experts emphasized the need for standardized data integration methods to enhance model consistency.
"iWG
Francesca Zanello R&D coordinator, IDROSTUDI
Digital Twin, integrating InfoWorks WS Pro and realtime data, empowers water utilities to effectively address day-to-day challenges"
esca Zanello, R&D Coordinator, and Elia Zanelli, Hydraulic Engineer, both from Idrostudi.
Hydraulic models have evolved from static planning tools to dynamic systems that support real-time operational decisions. During the online event, Serena introduced InfoWorks WS Pro, emphasizing its role in integrating SCADA, GIS, and decision-support systems for continuous monitoring and optimization. Followed his presentation, Zanello highlighted the iWG platform, a solution that combines real-time operational data with hydraulic modelling to create an interactive digital twin.
Caryn Novak Civil and Environmental Engineer, Autodesk Water
"The dual drainage model offers a comprehensive digital framework to ingest all the data from the surface and from the underground"
Looking forward, the session concluded with a call for continued research and technological advancements in flood modelling. AI-driven automation, GIS integration, and multi-source validation were identified as key to the future of urban flood resilience.
In December 2024, an insightful online event titled "From Planning to Practice: Integrated Hydraulic Models in the Digital Twin with InfoWorks WS Pro and iWG" featured water experts Luca Serena, Product Specialist Sales Executive at Autodesk Water, alongside Franc-
Zanelli demonstrated how real-time SCADA inputs enhance the digital twin, enabling utilities to model pressure variations, optimize demand management, and anticipate the effects of infrastructure changes. The session reinforced that digital twins empower utilities to bridge long-term planning with real-time operations, ensuring resilience against growing
With increasing extreme weather events, the accuracy and completeness of sewer network datasets have never been more critical
pressures from climate variability, population growth, and aging infrastructure.
The Q&A session revealed strong global interest, with participants questioning the scalability of these tools, their interoperability with existing systems, and their accessibility for non-specialists. The speakers emphasized Autodesk’s commitment to open data exchange, user-friendly interfaces, and robust computational capabilities that allow both small towns and megacities to efficiently analyse vast networks.
A key takeaway was the importance of the "sense, predict, and act" principle within a digital twin ecosystem. By integrating real-time visibility, predictive analytics, and automated response mechanisms, utilities can enhance emergency management, optimize infrastructure, and improve service reliability.
AI-driven automation, GIS integration, and multi-source validation were identified as key to the future of urban flood resilience
Nature-based solutions: the Mansfield Sustainable Flood Resilience Project November 2024’s webinar, "Modelling Innovative Blue-Green Approaches to Stormwater Management", showcased the ambitious Mansfield Sustainable Flood Resilience Project. This £76 million initiative is the largest retrofit of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in the UK, incorporating bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable pavements to enhance flood resilience.
The online event featured insights from Paul Campbell, Solutions Engineer at Autodesk Water, Hannah Howe, Principal Consultant & Team Leader at AECOM, as well as Luke C. Johnson, Principal Consultant at AECOM. Campbell detailed Autodesk’s role in the project, particularly through InfoWorks ICM, which has streamlined design approvals and reduced costs. He noted, "InfoWorks ICM is a comprehensive solution for all aspects of rainfall catchment modelling, seamlessly integrating river systems, urban drainage, and overland flow."
Howe provided an in-depth look at the project’s vision, emphasizing its "no regrets" approach — aimed at remov-
Hannah Howe
Principal Consultant & Team Leader, AECOM
"The Mansfield Sustainable Flood Resilience project is the UK’s first catchment-scale SuDS retrofit project, designed to reduce flood risk"
ing surface water from the sewer network and building resilience across the catchment. "The project is not targeting
specific flooding mechanisms, but rather building resilience around the catchment", she explained.
Johnson discussed the technical aspects of SuDS design, highlighting the use of standardized templates developed in collaboration with Severn Trent and local authorities. These templates ensure scalability and regulatory approval efficiency while optimizing performance.
The webinar’s Q&A session reflected strong industry engagement, with over 60 questions raised. Discussions covered urban creep, the multifunctionality of SuDS in public spaces, and cost-effective implementation strategies. The speakers stressed the role of advanced hydraulic modelling in maximizing the impact of interventions, and
balancing costs with measurable flood mitigation outcomes.
Long-term maintenance was also a key concern, prompting discussions about stakeholder collaboration to ensure infrastructure longevity. The adaptability of the Mansfield model to other geographic contexts was another highlight, with experts affirming that its data-driven approach could serve as a blueprint for global urban water challenges.
The road ahead: digitalization and collaboration in water management
The Autodesk Water Webinar Series’ latest seminars have provided a compelling look into how technology is transforming water management. From leveraging sewer network data for flood
Paul Campbell Solutions Engineer, Autodesk Water
"InfoWorks ICM is a solution for all aspects of rainfall catchment modelling, seamlessly integrating river systems, urban drainage, and overland flow"
resilience to integrating hydraulic models into digital twins and advancing blue-green infrastructure, the discussions underscored the growing importance of data-driven decision-making.
Autodesk’s cutting-edge solutions, particularly InfoWorks ICM and WS Pro, are enabling water utilities, engineers, and planners to model, predict, and act with unprecedented precision. The integration of AI, GIS, and real-time monitoring is driving efficiency, resilience, and sustainability across the water sector.
As these conversations continue, Autodesk and Smart Water Magazine remain committed to exploring the evolving challenges and opportunities of digitalization in water management. The insights from these webinars offer a roadmap for the future — one where technology, collaboration, and innovation intersect to create more resilient and adaptive water systems worldwide.
Autodesk’s cutting-edge solutions are enabling water utilities, engineers, and planners to model, predict, and act with unprecedented precision
Xylem’s acquisition of Idrica accelerates digital transformation in water management
In December 2024, global water solutions company Xylem announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Idrica, a Spanish leader in water data management and analytics. This strategic move aims to empower water utilities with intelligent solutions to tackle pressing challenges such as water scarcity and aging infrastructure. Following the acquisition, Xylem Vue powered by GoAigua was renamed Xylem Vue, combining Xylem’s existing digital water solutions portfolio with Idrica’s technology platform. Xylem Vue integrates advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and real-time monitoring to help utilities optimize their networks and enhance efficiency. By deepening its partnership with Idrica, Xylem positioned itself at the forefront of digital transformation in the water sector; the collaboration marks a significant milestone in the evolution of smart water management.
Xylem Vue provides real-time insights, enabling utilities to optimize operations, reduce water loss and improve overall efficiency. Matthew Pine, CEO of Xylem, emphasized that this partnership allows utilities
As water challenges grow, digital solutions are key to sustainability. Xylem’s partnership with Idrica brings advanced data-driven tools to utilities, helping them reduce water losses and optimize operations.
to "see deeper into their networks and use insights to solve long-standing problems like water loss more effectively and affordably than ever before."
Jaime Barba, CEO of Idrica and head of Xylem Vue, notes how many utilities struggle with complex systems that make it difficult to use data efficiently. The enhanced collaboration aims to provide a more streamlined, secure, and holistic approach to managing digital assets in water and wastewater utilities. The power of predictive analytics combined with real-time monitoring will ensure that utilities are better equipped to prevent failures, extend infrastructure life, and ensure a stable water supply for growing urban populations.
Water utilities worldwide have adopted the Xylem Vue integrated software and analytics platform to optimize their infrastructure, lower costs, and adapt to new conditions. For instance, the City of Hot Springs, Arkan-
sas, improved its operations by adding virtual district metering areas using Xylem Vue. This enabled the city to pinpoint high water loss areas by creating smaller, more manageable zones within the network, resulting in a nearly 50% reduction in non-revenue water. Similarly, in Monterrey, Mexico, Servicios de Agua y Drenaje de Monterrey implemented smart monitoring and management of water pressure, flow, and consumption using Xylem Vue, achieving overall water savings of 17% and up to 37% in certain key sections of the pipeline network.
These examples illustrate how digital solutions can significantly enhance operational efficiency and resource management in both large and small water systems. With increasing demand for water, particularly in regions facing drought conditions, such solutions are becoming indispensable for utilities aiming to secure water access for future generations.
According to market analysts, the demand for digital water solutions is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, fuelled by advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud-based monitoring systems. The Xylem-Idrica partnership positions both companies at the forefront of this transformation, offering integrated solutions that can help utilities transition to more intelligent and adaptive water management models.
The future of water management lies in the ability to harness data, integrate digital tools, and develop solutions that not only enhance efficiency but also promote water conservation and climate resilience. With the continued advancement of digital technology, the water industry is poised to enter a new era of smart water management, where utilities can make data-driven decisions that benefit both the environment and the communities they serve.
The acquisition of Idrica is more than just a business move; it is a step toward redefining how water is managed in the 21st century, ensuring that communities have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water services.
“Companies have to deliver not only the infrastructure but a step-change in performance too, hand in hand with greater transparency”
MIKE KEIL - CHIEF EXECUTIVE, CONSUMER COUNCIL FOR WATER (ENGLAND AND WALES)
With water bills rising and public trust in the industry under pressure, CCW is working to protect consumers and drive change. Chief Executive Mike Keil discusses the challenges, solutions, and what must be done to ensure fair, transparent, and sustainable water services.
The water industry in England and Wales is under intense scrutiny, with consumers facing rising bills, environmental concerns, and questions about trust and transparency. In this landscape, the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) plays a vital role as the statutory body representing water and sewerage customers. Funded through a charge on water companies and sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), CCW works to resolve complaints, influence policy, and drive positive change in the sector.
At the helm of these efforts is Mike Keil, Chief Executive of CCW. With a background spanning climate science, regulation, and industry leadership, Mike brings a unique perspective to the challenges facing water consumers today. Since joining CCW in 2017, he has been instrumental in shaping policy and strengthening the organisation’s influence. Now, as CEO,
"CCW is a statutory body, and a core function of our work is providing advice and information to people on the services they receive"
he is focused on ensuring that consumers’ voices are heard and that water companies are held accountable for delivering better service, affordability, and environmental responsibility.
With water customers facing higher costs and mounting concerns about service and environmental performance, we speak with Mike about CCW’s role, the challenges ahead, and what must change to build a more customer-focused and transparent water sector in England and Wales.
Could you share a bit about your background and what your role at the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) involves?
You could say I’ve been immersed in the world of water for much of my career but I am actually a physicist by training. The first decade of my career was spent at the Met Office where my work was largely focussed on weather and climate models. This led to my first move into the water sector as Ofwat’s Head of Climate Change. I was responsible for writing the regulator’s first policy statement on the topic. After four years with Ofwat, I moved to Severn Trent Water where I led its work on climate change and resilience – themes which of course remain central to the current challenges facing the water sector.
I’ve been at CCW since 2017 and have relished the opportunity to try and increase our influence – and crucially that of consumers - within the water sector and government.
To begin with, I was responsible for developing CCW’s policy and research work but after an initial spell as interim CEO, I was delighted to take on the role permanently last October. My role is wide-ranging but at its core is the challenge of making sure CCW’s work is aligned with the evolving views and priorities of consumers in England and Wales. It’s also about ensuring CCW establishes itself as an organisation which is renowned for delivering excellence for customers and keeping our promises to them. The very things we expect from water companies.
With the sector under unprecedented scrutiny around its performance and future, a big part of my role is to ensure the voice of the consumer is heard and acted on – not drowned out by competing voices and agendas.
We have a golden opportunity to build a better and more trusted water sector which puts consumers and the environment first. Drawing upon CCW’s large body of evidence and insights, my role is to provide leadership and strategic direction to achieve this goal.
Can you give us an overview of the Consumer Council for Water’s functions and how it works to represent water and sewerage customers across England and Wales?
CCW is the independent voice for all water and sewerage consumers across
England and Wales. We’re a statutory body and a core function of our work is providing advice and information to people on the services they receive, while also investigating complaints if a customer has been unable to resolve an issue with their water company or water retailer.
Last year alone, we supported consumers with more than 10,700 complaints and helped to secure more than £1 million in financial redress to aggrieved household and business customers.
But our work is so much wider than just resolving complaints and providing advice to consumers on important issues such as how to save money on their bill. As well as publicly holding water companies to account for their performance on the things that matter most to people, we also provide a strong and increasingly influential voice for consumers to drive positive change. This is all underpinned by our extensive body of research and the expertise and insight we gather through dealing with thousands of customer complaints.
We bring about change through our success-
ful campaigning or directly influencing policymakers and key decision-makers across the sector and within government. We’re seeing this work bearing fruit, particularly with the current UK government which is making a raft of changes on the back of our recommendations.
A great example of this is the improvements to the Guaranteed Standards Scheme. The government has moved at pace to implement and build on many of the recommendations to improve service standards and automatic payments which we had proposed, bringing benefits to all water consumers.
With water bills in England and Wales set to rise in April, how is CCW addressing water poverty? What specific initiatives do you believe are most effective in supporting vulnerable households?
Ending water poverty has been one of our leading strategic priorities right since we published our Independent Review of Water Affordability back in 2021. There are few things more essential in life than water and we believe everyone should be able to afford this service.
"We bring about change through campaigning or directly influencing policymakers and decision-makers across the sector and within the government"
Our 2021 review provided a blueprint for change through a series of measures water companies could take to improve support. Many of these have already been implemented but the most important one has yet to be realised. We recommended the implementation of a single social tariff scheme which would lift everyone out of water poverty across England and Wales. This would replace the postcode lottery of support created by existing water company social tariffs and offer fair and consistent help to those who cannot afford their water bill. Funding this scheme through a central pot would allow support to flow to where it
"Ending water poverty has been one of our strategic priorities right since we published our Independent Review of Water Affordability"
is most needed and not be constrained within regions.
The case for a single social tariff has never been more pressing or compelling given the unprecedented increases to water bills. The good news is recent legislative changes have cleared the way to introduce a universal scheme and we believe the political and collective will for change is there. We’ve also made recommendations to the government to improve the support provided through WaterSure, which caps the bills of metered low-income households with high essential water use needs due to a medical condition or family size.
In the meantime, we continue to lead efforts to promote existing water company support through our extensive media work and website, which is packed full of advice and tools to help people save money or access help. Existing social tariff schemes are lowering the bills of more than 1.6 million households so – while support does need to be improved - it’s vital we do everything we can to raise awareness of this assistance.
"The case for a single social tariff has never been more pressing or compelling given the unprecedented increases to water bills"
2024 Vulnerability Seminar for
Switching to a water meter also remains a quick and easy way for some households to make substantial savings. Our popular water meter calculator makes it easy for people to see if they might save by switching. For those already in arrears, companies’ debt-matching schemes can really help people clear their debt much more quickly.
Customers may feel they’re paying more without seeing corresponding improvements in service. How can the industry ensure that rising water bills deliver tangible benefits for consumers?
Although many households are understandably worried about the steep bill rises, our research shows there is broad support for the investment plans these increases will help to fund. This support will start to seep away though if people do not see and experience a difference in their own lives over the next five years –whether that’s enjoying cleaner rivers or getting the support they need if they hit hard times.
Investment needs to be prioritised by companies on the issues which their customers have told them matter most
to them. Companies have no shortage of insight on this from the price review process but the challenge now is – can they deliver? They cannot afford not to because as customers’ bills rise so will their expectations.
Communication is absolutely key here – companies need to ‘show and tell’. Show customers how their money is being spent and tell them how it is making a difference. We know only half of customers think their water company is good at communicating with them and sharing information. That has to change if we’re going to turn the tide of public opinion.
What steps are necessary to foster a more customer-focused culture within the UK water industry, and how might this shift influence public perception and trust?
The first thing to say is there is no silver bullet to repairing trust in the sector. It will take a series of changes, time and a unified effort by everyone in the water sector to transform it.
We’re already doing a lot of work with water companies in this space and a key thing to stress is that customers have
to become central to how the business thinks, acts and the decisions it makes. This connection has to be reflected in behaviours and embedded in processes, systems and policies and be consistently demonstrated across leadership and management teams.
We often see bold and impressive brand statements in the water industry but the behaviours and actions of companies do not always match these promises. From the Board down, water companies need to think carefully about whether each decision they make or action they take will build customer trust or erode it.
Companies also need to become better connected with their customers and actively listen to the sentiment being shared. People need to feel their water company has genuine empathy for the people it serves - that will drive a stronger emotional connection. Trust is also earned by being open and transparent with customers and taking ownership when things go wrong.
Public distrust of water companies has grown due to environmental issues like storm overflows. What actions
protect the environment. Changing that perception is going to be pivotal to the industry winning back customers’ trust and confidence.
The latest price settlement will unlock unprecedented levels of investment and the opportunity for companies to end the harm caused to the environment by storm overflows. To do that though companies have to deliver not only the infrastructure but the step-change in performance too. In the past, we’ve seen some water companies struggle to deliver far less ambitious investment programmes. The stakes this time have never been higher as this investment is going to hit customers hard in the pocket. Investors want a return but customers want one too for the money they’re investing through much higher bills.
"Our research shows there is broad customer support for the investment plans that water bill increases will help to fund"
are needed to improve environmental performance and rebuild public confidence in the sector?
One of the first things some water companies need to do is read the room and understand the strength of public anger and upset over their environmental performance. Time and again we see some companies blaming regulators –blaming past price settlements or blaming the weather for their failures. This just compounds people’s frustration. People don’t want excuses – they want action and to see the health of our rivers, lakes and seas improving. We know from our research only around a third of customers trust water companies to
Investment will take time to deliver results so companies need to be really clear from the outset when people can expect to see things improve and what this will look like. Performance improvements need to come hand in hand with far greater transparency from the water sector. We’re already seeing some progress in this area with the launch of a real-time storm overflow map but this must be the springboard for even greater openness over performance. It should be straightforward for customers to find out how their water company is performing all year round – not just when they are put on the naughty step by a regulator’s report.
"Only half of customers think their water company is good at communicating. This has to change if we’re going to turn the tide of public opinion"
The practice of company executives being rewarded for failure also needs to end. The recently passed Water (Special Measures) Act has empowered Ofwat to ban bonuses where companies have not delivered to customers or the environment. But company bosses shouldn’t wait for Ofwat to step in when things go wrong. They should get on the front foot, own their failures and decline any financial rewards for poor performance.
Transparency is often highlighted as the foundation of good customer service. How can water companies improve communication with customers, particularly when addressing sensitive issues or public concerns?
We know that communication from water companies can be a real frustration for customers with around one in four people describing it as poor. In many instances, people only ever recall hearing from their water company when they receive their bill. Given how central water is to all our lives and the level of scrutiny the sector is under, that has to change.
One of the most important things companies can do is not go into hiding when it comes to confronting difficult issues – whether that’s explaining why customers are facing such large bill rises or dealing with matters around executive pay, pollution or service failures. The more difficult the issue the harder companies should try to reach out to their customers to explain what they are doing to improve or address an issue of public concern.
Too often we see companies almost paralysed with fear and unwilling to put their head above the parapet when it comes to more sensitive matters. That just feeds the perception that a company has something to hide. It also leaves a vacuum which can get filled with misinformation.
People want to see senior bosses taking ownership and being accountable and that means being visible during times of public concern.
Digitalisation is transforming many industries — what role do you see digital tools and technologies playing in improving customer experience within the water sector?
There is tremendous scope for digital tools and technologies to improve customers’ experiences of the sector, particularly within the area of affordability and vulnerability.
We’re expecting to see more widespread use of monitoring sentiment during calls
"Water companies need to think carefully about whether each decision they make or action they take will build customer trust or erode it"
and in written customer communication with the potential to identify ‘unspoken needs’ such as financial support or the provision of bottled water during supply disruptions.
The growing presence of smart meters in water should also provide customers – through apps or online portals – with clear and helpful insights on their water use, empowering them to save water and money.
And then there are the opportunities which flow out of Artificial Intelligence – whether that’s quickly identifying financial vulnerability through payment patterns or spotting and intercepting potential billing problems before they land on customers’ doormats.
How is CCW working with businesses and communities to encourage water conservation and reduce sewer misuse, and what positive outcomes have resulted from these efforts?
We’ve been working with a number of water companies on our Leading the Way programme which centres around
sharing what has worked well during campaigns when using behavioural science. These campaigns are helping customers make the connection between their water use and the effect it has on the water environment. There are some really interesting and innovative projects underway and I’d urge people to visit our website to read more about them. Leading the Way is also helping us and the industry develop our thinking around how we can change customers’ behaviour around sewer misuse too.
Evaluating the impact of campaigns on behaviour change is challenging, which is why we’ve been supporting the development of tools for this purpose. These include the Water Saving Evaluation Toolkit, developed by Waterwise, and the Water Efficiency Confidence Scale, created by Artesia.
In January we launched our Refresh Your Routine campaign targeted at Gen-Z in Birmingham and encouraging behaviour change around water use. The focus has been on future bill-pay-
"Water companies need to read the room and understand the strength of public anger and upset over their environmental performance"
ers who have a strong awareness of environmental issues but have not made the connection with conserving water. The campaign has been encouraging simple actions like reducing your shower time to four minutes, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and filling the sink with water when shaving. The messaging has been delivered across platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat and digital billboards in the city.
The engagement rates so far have been strong, and we’ll be evaluating the campaign’s impact to help inform future work in this area.
Stronger collaboration between water companies and water retailers is critical to ensuring business customers are empowered with the advice and practical support they need to save water. Our latest research shows less than half of business customers in England and Wales (43%) are engaging in water-saving activities. But more encouragingly, just over a third of businesses said they would be interested in receiving more advice and practical help on water saving.
We’ve been working with retailers and wholesalers, as well as other organisations, through our One Business Customer Forum to facilitate conversations so we can try address some of the barriers which may be affecting collaboration in this space. We are also part of the Retailer and Wholesaler Group leading on water efficiency and the roll-out of smart meters for businesses.
Smart meters have the potential to be a game-changer for business customers in understanding and changing their water use. But if we’re going to maximise this untapped potential, the journey for customers has to be a smooth one with good communication and access to the information they need every step of the way.
Smart metering is one of the many topics we explore in our Waterfall podcast. The podcast delves into every aspect of water saving, providing absorbing advice and insight from experts across the sector and beyond. I’m one of the podcast co-hosts so your readers can put a voice to these words - and soak up some valuable tips too, just search for CCW Waterfall.
"The latest price settlement will unlock unprecedented levels of investment and the opportunity to end the harm caused by storm overflows"
Reports warn that businesses must act now to address growing climate risks
The growing frequency and severity of climate hazards are reshaping economies, with extreme weather events threatening industries worldwide. For businesses, climate action is not just ethical, it’s a financial necessity. Climate-related disasters have caused $3.6 trillion in damages since 2000, and by 2035, annual fixed asset losses for listed companies could reach $560–$610 billion due to extreme heat, wildfires, droughts, and flooding. Telecommunications, utilities, and energy sectors could see earnings decline by over 20%, making it clear that traditional business models must evolve in response to climate risks.
Regulatory pressures further compound these challenges. By 2030, carbon pricing could erode up to 50% of earnings in energy-intensive industries. Delaying climate adaptation increases risks, leading to supply chain failures, financial losses, and weakened investor confidence. Investors are already prioritizing sustainability, with businesses that fail to meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria facing difficulties in securing funding.
Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a present and growing crisis set to disrupt businesses globally. Recent reports from the World Economic Forum warn that climate hazards could slash up to 7% of corporate earnings annually by 2035, a loss equivalent to COVID-19-level disruptions occurring every two years.
However, there is a strong financial case for early action. Research suggests that for every dollar invested in climate resilience, businesses can save up to $19 in avoided losses. Green markets are set to expand from $5 trillion in 2024 to $14 trillion by 2030, offering significant growth opportunities. Companies that embrace sustainability are already benefiting from increased efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced consumer trust. Industry leaders have demonstrated that integrating sustainability can drive both resilience and profitability.
Reports such as Business on the Edge: Building Industry Resilience to Climate Hazards and The Cost of Inaction: A CEO Guide to Navigating Climate Risk highlight the urgency of integrating climate risk into corporate strategies. Key recommendations include transitioning to sustainable energy, reinforcing
infrastructure, leveraging data to anticipate risks, and fostering industry-wide collaboration. Businesses that embed sustainability into operations will be better positioned to navigate the uncertainties of a warming world.
The financial risks of climate inaction are already materializing. Since 2000, climate-related damages have doubled, and insurance premiums for climate resilience are projected to rise by 50% by 2030. Some business assets are becoming uninsurable, and without intervention, global GDP could decline by up to 22% by 2100. These trends underscore the need for immediate corporate action, as climate disruptions become persistent rather than occasional.
Sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure are particularly vulnerable. The agricultural industry is already grappling
with declining yields due to droughts and extreme heat, while manufacturers in coastal regions face threats from rising sea levels. The construction industry must invest in climate-resilient designs to comply with new building codes, a costly but necessary shift for long-term viability.
Financial markets are also responding, with institutional investors increasingly divesting from fossil fuels and high-carbon industries while directing capital toward green technologies. Businesses that fail to align with sustainable investment priorities risk losing access to funding and shareholder confidence.
With multiple Earth systems nearing irreversible tipping points, corporate decisions today will shape the economic landscape of tomorrow. Businesses face a choice: inaction and mounting financial losses or adaptation and long-term resilience. Those investing in sustainable solutions will find opportunities for growth, while those who delay may struggle in an increasingly unforgiving climate reality. The window for meaningful action is closing—businesses that act now will define the future of economic stability in a changing world.
Research reveals impacts on water supply, ecosystems, flooding, and hydropower
Anew study in Science by researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and the University of Cincinnati has mapped 35 years of river changes on a global scale for the first time. The work has revealed that 44% of the largest, downstream rivers saw a decrease in how much water flows through them every year, while 17% of the smallest upstream rivers saw increases. These changes have implications for flooding, ecosystem disruption, hydropower development interference and insufficient freshwater supplies.
Previous attempts to quantify changes in rivers over time looked at specific outlet reaches or a rear basin part of a river, explained Dongmei Feng, lead author, assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati and former research assistant professor in the Fluvial@ UMass lab run by the paper’s co-author Colin Gleason, Armstrong Professional Development Professor of civil and environmental engineering at UMass Amherst.
“But as we know, rivers are not isolated,” she says. “So even if we are interested in one location, we have to think about how it’s impact-
A groundbreaking study uncovers dramatic shifts in river flow, with major downstream declines and increases in the smallest upstream rivers, largely due to climate change and human activity.
ed both upstream and downstream. We think about the river system as a whole, organically connected system. The takeaway from this paper is: The rivers respond to factors — climate change or human regulation — differently [and] we provide the finer detail of those responses.”
River flow rate, also known as discharge, describes how much water flows through a river, measured in cubic meters per second or gallons per day. Feng and Gleason developed a new approach using satellite data and computer modelling to capture this flow rate across 3 million stream reaches worldwide.
“That’s every river, every day, everywhere, over a 35-year period,” Gleason says. “Some of these are changing by 5 or 10% per year. That’s rapid, rapid change. We had no idea what those flow rates were or how they were changing — which rivers are not like they used to be — now we know.”
The significant decreases found in downstream rivers
mean that less fresh water is available in the largest parts of many rivers worldwide. This has significant impacts on drinking water and irrigation. The decrease in flow rate also means that the river has less power to move dirt and small rocks in the riverbed. The movement of this sediment downstream builds deltas and is an important process in countering sea rise, so this loss of power is detrimental to deltas, especially in light of modern dam building limiting how much sediment is available to move.
Smaller, upstream rivers (typically closer to mountains) are showing an inverse pattern: 17% are seeing an increase in flow (though this is not uniform, as 10% are decreasing.) This increase in volume in these small rivers can have big impacts on their surrounding communities. The researchers found a 42% increase in large floods of these small streams. Gleason cites those that have occurred
in Vermont in recent summers as an example.
“Floods are disastrous for humans, but for upstream species, they may be advantageous,” adds Feng. Flooding provides important nutrients and a means of travel for migrating fish. “The local people [near the western Amazon River], for example, have reported that the fish migration has increased in that region because the flooding is more frequent, which means the high flow required for fish migration is more frequent.”
This increase in upstream flow rate may also throw an unexpected wrench in hydropower plans, particularly in High Mountain Asia for places like Nepal and Bhutan. “The increased flow of the river channel means erosion power is much more significant than before and it’s transporting more sediment downstream,” says Feng. This becomes an issue for countries looking to develop more clean energy because this sediment can clog up hydropower plants.
While the paper cannot quantify the exact cause and effect, the researchers know that the general drivers of these changes are largely climate change and human activity.
On the 22nd of March 2025, World Water Day, the whole world turns its eyes to a tragic and imminent crisis: the accelerating disappearance of glaciers. These towering masses of ice have been fundamental to the water balance for millennia, regulating the flow of rivers and supplying water to millions of people. What may appear to us to be awe-inspiring ice highways are the very source of development for entire ecosystems, and also for the communities that depend on their melting for agriculture, consumption and energy generation.
Global warming, driven by uncontrolled greenhouse gas emissions, has accelerated the retreat of glaciers at an alarming rate. Our most stable source of
freshwater for centuries is being severely depleted, becoming a stealthy threat to water security in many regions of the world. The river flows that depend on meltwater are beginning to fluctuate dramatically, with periods of abundance followed by extreme droughts. Meanwhile, rising sea levels from melting Greenland and Antarctic ice threaten to reshape the geography of coastal cities around the world.
Throughout history, humankind's survival has depended on glaciers without our awareness of their fragility, and now the threat of their imminent disappearance exposes the vulnerability of a system that seemed unalterable. The decline of these ice giants does not only affect countries with mountainous re-
gions but has repercussions across the globe. The disruption of the water cycle, the instability of precipitation patterns and the impact on biodiversity make it clear that the meltdown crisis is not an isolated phenomenon, but a profound transformation of the ecosystems that sustain life.
The impact is global, from the peaks of the Andes to the poles, from the rivers of Asia to the water supplies of Europe. If current trends continue, the entire planet will face a future in which access to freshwater will become increasingly uncertain. The question that arises is whether we will be able to anticipate the consequences or whether we will continue watching as we destroy our ancient, life-giving ice currents.
On World Water Day 2025, the world confronts a growing crisis: the rapid disappearance of glaciers. As this year’s theme highlights the link between water and climate change, melting ice threatens water security, ecosystems, and coastal cities, reshaping our planet’s future.
Science confirms this with alarming figures: glaciers globally have lost an average of 267 ± 16 gigatonnes of mass per year between 2000 and 2019, according to the study “Accelerated global glacier mass loss in the early twenty-first century” (Hugonet et al., 2021). To put this in perspective, this amount of water would be equivalent to filling approximately 107 million Olympic-size swimming pools each year.
The problem lies not only in the amount of ice that is being lost, but in the speed at which this is happening. In
some regions, such as Alaska, the Andes or the Himalayas, the rate of glacier thinning has quadrupled in the last 30 years. In simple terms, what used to take a century to melt now takes just a few decades. Global temperature is on an upward trend of 0.030 °C per year, suggesting that this process will only intensify in the near future.
Despite their appearance as buttresses of mountain ice, glaciers also regulate sea level rise. Indeed, glaciers in Greenland and Antarctica are contributing to this rise, threatening coastal cities and island communities. The interconnection of these phenomena with extreme weather events, such as more intense hurricanes and torrential rains, elevates this crisis to a global scope.
Glaciers have played a key role in regulating water availability. They act as natural “water banks”, accumulating snow in winter and gradually releasing it in summer, ensuring a constant supply of water to rivers and aquifers. Here's why this balance is collapsing.
The article “A call for an accurate presentation of glaciers as water resources” (Gascoin, Simon, 2023) warns that the disappearance of glaciers does not mean an immediate impact on water availability, but a progressive alteration of the hydrological cycle. Initially, the accelerated melting generates an increase in river flow, which could give the false impression that more water is available.
Global warming, driven by uncontrolled greenhouse gas emissions, has accelerated the retreat of glaciers at an alarming rate
However, this effect is temporary. As glaciers continue to shrink, there will come a point at which there will no longer be enough ice to sustain flows in times of drought.
This phenomenon is already evident in the Himalayan region. Rivers such as the
Indus, Ganges and Brahmaputra have experienced an increase in their flow due to accelerated melting, but climate models warn that they could suffer drastic reductions in volume in the coming decades. For millions of people who depend on these water sources for agriculture and daily consumption, this change could have devastating consequences.
In addition, the lack of water from melting snow will force communities to rely more on groundwater, increasing the overexploitation of aquifers. This could lead to additional problems such as desertification and land degradation, affecting agricultural production and food security in many regions of the world.
The melting of glaciers is not a localised phenomenon, but a problem that affects all regions of the world. From the Andes to the Himalayas, the Alps, the Rocky Mountains and other major mountain ranges, the retreat of these ice masses is transforming the global water balance and affecting millions of people.
In his comprehensive study, Simon Gascoin sheds light on the state of the world's most iconic glaciers. In South America, the Andes Mountains are home to some of them, vital sources of water for cities such as Lima and Santiago. However, recent studies have revealed that Andean glaciers have lost almost half of
Glaciers’ disappearance does not mean an immediate impact on water availability, but a progressive alteration of the hydrological cycle
their mass in the last century, and some of them could disappear in the coming decades. This reduction of ice not only affects the availability of drinking water, but also increases the risk of landslides and avalanches caused by the weakening of mountain slopes,
The Himalayas, known as the “water tower of Asia”, face a similar scenario. Glaciers in this region supply key rivers such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Indus, on which more than a billion people depend. Reduced flows could lead to tensions over access to water in densely populated countries such as India, China and Pakistan. In the short term, accelerated melting may lead to devastating floods, but in the future, it will result in a drastic reduction of water supply in times of drought.
In the European Alps, where glaciers have shaped landscapes and been part of the local culture and economy for centuries, the situation is no less alarming. During the hottest summers in recent history, some glaciers have lost several metres in thickness in a matter of months. The shrinking ice not only affects the region's natural beauty and mountain tourism, but also compromises hydroelectric power generation, a key source of electricity in several European countries.
Could we imagine an Antarctica without glaciers?
A team of international scientists led by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) has recently produced a map (Bedmap3) that simulates a view of Antarctica as if its 27 million cubic kilometres of ice had disappeared, revealing the hidden location of the highest mountains and deepest canyons. This map is not only interesting on a geographical level, but shows us a clear and shocking vision of the consequences of a possible loss of the ice that contains the Antarctic continent, approximately 90% of the planet. If its entire ice mass were to melt, sea levels would rise by some 58 metres, enough to submerge entire cities, from New York to Shanghai. Beyond sea level rise, the collapse of Antarctic glaciers would cause irreversible changes in ocean currents, affecting the climate of the entire planet.
Glaciers not only store water, they also play an essential role in regulating global temperatures. By reflecting sunlight, they contribute to maintaining the Earth's thermal balance. Without their presence, the oceans would absorb more heat, further accelerating global warming and affecting marine life.
If Antarctica’s ice mass were to melt, sea levels would rise by some 58 m, enough to submerge entire cities, from New York to Shanghai
In addition, the total melting of Antarctic glaciers would expose ancient sediments and micro-organisms trapped in the ice for millennia. Some scientists warn that this could release unknown viruses and bacteria, with possible implications for global health. Large amounts of carbon and methane, trapped in the permafrost, would also be released, intensifying the greenhouse effect and further increasing global temperatures.
While this scenario may seem remote, the loss of ice shelves in Antarctica is already underway. Cracks in the Antarctic Peninsula Ice Shelf and massive break-up events have been detected and have changed the configuration of the region in recent decades. A glacier-free Antarctica is not just a theoretical possibility, but a possible future if immediate action is not taken to curb climate change.
The retreat of glaciers is an undeniable sign of climate change in action. Their disappearance affects not only the people who depend directly on them, but also the stability of the global climate. While scientists warn of the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and take adaptation measures, glaciers continue to melt, irreversibly transforming the world.
The melting of glaciers is not a localised phenomenon, but a problem that affects millions of people in all regions of the world
SOMETHING TO READ...
pilgrimage along
The novel recounts Simon Cleary’s 344 km journey along the Brisbane River, a walk that had to be “imagined into being” due to the absence of a continuous path. While the river holds personal meaning for Cleary, who played in its tributaries as a child, his journey is also a deeper exploration.
SOMETHING TO ENJOY...
in Formentera
"On the Beach" is a 1986 song by British singer-songwriter Chris Rea. Written by Rea and produced with David Richards, it charted in the UK, France, and the Netherlands. Inspired by the Spanish island of Formentera, Rea described it as reflecting a pivotal moment in his relationship with his wife.
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World Water Day March 22
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