AI in Water Utilities: From Hype to Responsible Transformation

Water utilities worldwide are operating in an increasingly complex environment. Ageing infrastructure, climate variability, water scarcity, rapid urbanisation, rising operational costs and growing customer expectations are placing additional pressure on the delivery of reliable, efficient and inclusive water and sanitation services. 

At the same time, advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics and digital technologies are creating new opportunities to transform how utilities manage infrastructure, optimise resources, make decisions and engage with customers.

AI applications are already being explored across different areas of utility operations, including leakage detection, demand forecasting, predictive maintenance, energy optimisation, water quality monitoring, asset management and customer service. These technologies can improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, strengthen resilience, and support more informed decision-making.

However, the transition from experimentation to meaningful, large-scale adoption remains challenging.

For many utilities, limited digital infrastructure, fragmented data systems, insufficient technical capacity, financial constraints and organisational resistance can hinder implementation. Questions surrounding data governance, cybersecurity, algorithmic transparency, accountability and ethical decision-making also require careful consideration, particularly when AI is introduced into the management of essential public services.

Moving beyond the hype therefore requires a shift in focus: from what AI can do to what water utilities need to adopt it responsibly, effectively and sustainably.

This side event will examine the practical foundations of AI readiness and responsible digital transformation in the water sector. It will explore how utilities can assess their institutional and technical preparedness, identify appropriate applications, develop implementation strategies and establish the governance frameworks necessary to manage emerging risks.

Drawing on perspectives from water utilities, technology providers, research institutions, industry associations and international organisations, the discussion will consider how innovation can be translated into measurable improvements in service delivery.

Particular attention will be given to the importance of workforce development, organisational leadership, knowledge exchange and cross-sectoral partnerships in ensuring that digital transformation strengthens rather than undermines institutional capacity and public trust.

The session will also consider the different starting points of utilities across regions, recognising that access to data, infrastructure, finance and specialised expertise varies considerably. Responsible AI adoption must therefore be adaptable to different operational contexts and support inclusive, equitable and sustainable outcomes.

By connecting technological innovation with governance, capacity development and implementation experience, the event aims to identify practical approaches for accelerating the responsible use of AI in water utilities and supporting progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 6.

Target Audience

This in-person event is intended for water and wastewater utility leaders and professionals, policymakers, regulators, technology providers, digital transformation specialists, researchers, development partners, international organisations and other stakeholders interested in innovation and the future of water services.

It will be particularly relevant to professionals working on utility management, operational performance, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, governance, cybersecurity, workforce development and sustainable water and sanitation service delivery.

The event is led by the International Water Association (IWA) in collaboration with the following organisations:

• AquaFed

• Athena Infonomics

• Eawag – Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology

• European Economic and Social Committee – Consultative Commission on Industrial Change (CCMI)

• Grundfos

• Global Water Operators' Partnerships Alliance (GWOPA) / UN-Habitat

• Instituto Trata Brasil

• UN Global Compact Network Brazil

• VEI

• World Economic Forum – UpLink

• IWA Publishing

• IWAT Science and Technology Private Limited

Registration and Participation

This is an official in-person side event taking place within the Blue Zone of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference.

Attendance is restricted to delegates who are registered for the Conference and hold the necessary access credentials. Registration for this side event does not replace the Conference's official registration requirements.

For further information on participation and registration, please visit the official 2026 UN Water Conference website.

About the 2026 United Nations Water Conference

The 2026 United Nations Water Conference will take place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from 8 to 10 December 2026. The Conference will bring together governments, international organisations, civil society, the private sector, researchers and other stakeholders to accelerate progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 6: ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Through high-level discussions, Interactive Dialogues and stakeholder engagement, the Conference will provide an international platform for advancing cooperation, sharing solutions and strengthening action on water-related challenges. IWA's side event will contribute to these discussions by highlighting the role of responsible technological innovation, institutional readiness and partnerships in strengthening the performance and resilience of water and sanitation services.