The water industry in the UK stands at a crossroads, facing unprecedented challenges that demand innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. Leaders in this sector are not backing down from these obstacles; instead, they are actively seeking ways to transform old problems into new opportunities. This proactive stance is evident in the questions they are asking, and the answers they are seeking from partners like Fujitsu. These questions and answers are not just about solving immediate issues but about shaping the future of the water industry.
The integration of IT and OT systems is a critical area of focus. Fujitsu’s approach to this challenge is to provide a unified view and control over operations while enhancing cybersecurity. “Fujitsu bridges IT and OT through secure and interoperable platforms that enable real-time data exchange and visibility,” explains a spokesperson. This integration is not just about efficiency; it’s about creating a robust defence against growing cybersecurity threats. Fujitsu’s Smart Infrastructure solutions integrate SCADA systems with enterprise IT, offering a single pane of glass for monitoring and managing operations. This unified approach improves operational efficiency, reduces silos, and supports advanced analytics for better decision-making. “Our deep expertise ensures that the integration enhances security, reliability and performance across your organisation,” the spokesperson continues.
Data is another critical asset that water utilities are leveraging to make smarter decisions. Fujitsu’s approach involves using IoT, AI, and digital twin technologies to prototype solutions quickly, optimise water operations, and reduce costs. Real-time data on water flow, leakage, and quality, combined with AI-driven predictive maintenance, minimises downtime and enhances efficiency. Scalable cloud and edge computing solutions ensure seamless handling of growing data, while digital twins allow for the simulation of infrastructure upgrades. “Our aim is to transition our customers’ businesses from being reactive to being proactive, and finally to being prescriptive,” says the spokesperson. This shift is not just about efficiency; it’s about creating a proactive, forward-thinking approach to water management.
Sustainability is another key area where water utilities are looking for guidance. Fujitsu’s solutions enable water companies to reduce energy consumption, minimise water loss, and meet carbon reduction targets through smart water management systems. “Our IoT-based water leakage detection reduces wastage and ensures compliance with stringent regulatory standards,” the spokesperson notes. Fujitsu’s circular economy practices also help reduce the IT carbon footprint, aligning operations with net-zero and ESG goals. This focus on sustainability is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about creating a more resilient and environmentally responsible water sector.
Cybersecurity is another critical area of concern, especially with regulations like the NIS Directive. Fujitsu takes a proactive and standards-driven approach to compliance, helping water companies align with the UK Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF). “We help water companies align with the UK Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF) by identifying gaps against best practice, risk assessing those gaps, and proposing and implementing robust security controls for both IT and OT environments,” the spokesperson explains. This proactive approach ensures that water utilities are not just compliant but resilient against evolving cyber threats.
Fujitsu’s vision for the future of water utilities in the UK is ambitious yet achievable. It involves creating a resilient, data-driven, and sustainable sector that delivers exceptional value to communities. “We aim to empower water companies with innovative technologies – like IoT, AI, and digital twins – to optimise operations, reduce water loss, and enhance service quality,” the spokesperson says. This vision aligns with the strategic goals of water utilities, focusing on efficiency, customer satisfaction, and environmental stewardship. As the industry gears up for the next AMP cycle from 2025 to 2030, the opportunity to aim for a water-positive future is within reach. This is not just about securing water for Britain but about creating a sustainable and resilient water sector that can meet the challenges of the future. The key to achieving this vision, as Fujitsu sees it, is through collaboration and innovation. “We at Fujitsu welcome the challenges ahead and have forged a next-generation level of partnership we believe can help water utilities rise to them,” the spokesperson concludes. This proactive approach, coupled with a commitment to innovation and sustainability, sets the stage for a transformative future in the water sector.
