In the ever-evolving landscape of the water industry, the call for a robust digital transformation is louder than ever. Oliver Grievson, Associate Director at AtkinsRéalis and a Royal Academy of Engineering Visiting Professor at the University of Exeter, has been vocal about the urgency of this transition, particularly as the industry gears up for the AMP8 proposals. The Digital Water Summit 2024 underscored a crucial point: while the digital tools and technologies needed to revolutionize the water sector are already available, the uptake has been frustratingly slow. This begs the question—how do we kick the digital transformation into high gear?
The first step is defining what “digital water” really means. The term floats around like a balloon at a party, but it lacks a universally accepted definition. Various organizations, such as BIM4Water, SWAN, and the International Water Association, are each approaching digital water from distinct angles, creating a patchwork of interpretations. Grievson posits that digital water embodies a suite of tools designed to harness data for actionable insights. But here’s the kicker: those insights must be tailored to different stakeholders, each with unique needs and use cases.
Take, for instance, the operational control room of a water company. This high-stakes environment requires real-time data interpretation to deploy resources effectively. Here, digital water tools can enhance situational awareness, allowing control desk managers to make informed decisions swiftly. This operational aspect emphasizes the importance of event management and the innovative concept of digital twins, which simulate real-world conditions to optimize operations.
On the flip side, consider long-term planning and asset management. Water companies face intricate challenges, like efficiently managing wastewater networks. As we move into the next asset management period, the industry is shifting towards nature-based solutions and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) to mitigate overflow issues. The question is, how do we pinpoint the most effective solutions and optimal installation sites? The answer lies in employing modeling tools that assess various strategies, ensuring that the chosen solutions are both effective and cost-efficient.
Despite the existing digital tools, the industry often operates with a lack of awareness. As Grievson emphasizes, it’s not just about having the technology; it’s about being market-ready. At the Digital Water Summit, Wim Audenaert highlighted a critical point: any tool or technology must not only be technologically sound but also ready for market deployment. If it’s not, it should be placed in the “fridge” until the market warms up to it. However, given the pressing challenges the water sector faces, the time has come to open that fridge and start delivering digital water solutions.
The stakes are high. As the industry grapples with climate change, population growth, and aging infrastructure, the digital transformation isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity. The water sector stands at a crossroads, and the decisions made today will shape its future. By embracing digital tools, engaging stakeholders, and fostering a culture of innovation, the water industry can not only meet but exceed the challenges of tomorrow. The clock is ticking, and the digital revolution in water is not just on the horizon; it’s knocking at the door.
