New Technologies Shaping Water Utilities in 2025

As we look ahead to the 2025 conference, water utilities—both private and public—are eager to explore the cutting-edge technologies that promise to reshape the industry. While we are still in the early phases of our research campaign, one thing is already evident: there is significant enthusiasm for learning about the latest innovations.

Through in-depth discussions with industry stakeholders, we’ve gained valuable insights into what utilities need from new technologies before they commit to investments or pilot projects. 

Unsurprisingly, AI-powered leak detection remains at the forefront of interest. Utilities are particularly keen to understand how AI performs across diverse environments and how they can overcome the learning curve associated with integrating these systems. Many utilities approach AI with caution, partly due to the complexity of initial setup and the challenges of data integration—issues that have been highlighted as potential obstacles to success. The need for clear guidance on effectively adopting and implementing AI solutions has never been more pressing.

In water-stressed regions, utilities are starting to look at automated solutions for high-stakes situations, such as real-time leak detection and automatic shutoff systems. While these systems can offer significant benefits, they come with high upfront costs, and there are concerns about false alarms leading to unnecessary shutdowns. We will evaluate such innovations in an unbiased way at the conference.

There’s also significant interest in next-generation sensor technologies designed to replace traditional acoustic methods. These new technologies aim to pinpoint leaks with centimetre-level accuracy and deliver real-time data. However, they require specialised equipment and training—when many utilities are still grappling with the basics of data and AI integration.

For many utilities, the challenge isn't just adopting new technologies but integrating them into their existing systems. There’s also a concern about becoming overly dependent on a single vendor, which could lead to high service fees over the medium to long term. Expect valuable curated conversations on such perspectives.

This applies to a range of emerging technologies, including 

· IoT-based continuous monitoring systems, 

· AI-enhanced acoustic leak detection, 

· Cloud-based leakage management, including fleets and water logistics 

- Blockchain applications for water leakage 

- Further developments in Digital Twins 

· Advanced data analytics for predictive maintenance and repair prioritisation. While these systems generate valuable insights, they require significant data storage and skilled analysts to interpret the data effectively.

Utilities also evaluate how new detection methods—such as 

· Ultrasonic, 

· Infrared thermography, and 

· Electromagnetic leak detection—perform in different climates and environments. 

There’s also growing interest in 

· Drone-based leak detection, 

· Satellite-based detection, and 

· Pressure transient systems as well.

The overarching theme for 2025 centres on introducing new technologies and their seamless integration into existing infrastructure. Highlighting how these cutting-edge innovations can be smoothly incorporated into current systems, optimise data utilisation, and offer clear cost justifications. The focus will be on practical implementation, effective adoption, and comprehensive workforce training, which will be at the core of the case studies and roundtable discussions we present.

As our ground-breaking research continues, we’ll inform you of the latest developments. Even after nearly 30 years in this industry, we’re still uncovering potentially game-changing technologies that hold the potential to transform water leakage management.