The UK water sector is haemorrhaging around 3 billion litres of treated water daily through leaks, a staggering 20% of the total supply. This stark figure underscores the urgent need for innovation, but it’s not just about plugging leaks; it’s about future-proofing the sector against climate change, ageing infrastructure, and burgeoning demand. Enter AI, the tech buzzword promising to revolutionise everything from leak detection to resource management. But here’s the rub: technology is only as good as the people wielding it.
The water industry is awash with data, from treatment processes to network performance. AI could transform this deluge into real-time insights, slashing response times and boosting efficiency. Yet, AI systems are only as effective as the humans operating them. Without the right skills, the sector risks drowning in data, unable to harness AI’s full potential.
The UK government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan acknowledges the need to develop AI capabilities across industries. However, the UK trails behind global peers in technical skills, ranking a dismal 45th out of 109 countries in the Global Skills Report 2024. Without significant investment in workforce training, the water sector risks being left high and dry in the AI race.
AI can analyse patterns, detect anomalies, and automate routine processes, but it still needs human oversight. Engineers, analysts, and frontline teams must be trained to interpret AI outputs, apply insights to real-world challenges, and ensure decision-making remains accountable and transparent. “AI should be seen as a tool that enhances human expertise rather than replacing it,” says Dilani Parajasingam, a prominent figure in the UK water sector.
At Pennon, training is the linchpin of their AI strategy. At subsidiary SES Water, over 75% of employees have been upskilled, with plans to upskill 90% more across the Pennon Group in the next five years. This includes expertise in data analysis, automation, and predictive maintenance, enabling teams to collaborate with AI rather than be replaced by it. The results speak for themselves: faster responses to network issues and improved water demand forecasting based on weather patterns and population changes.
AI adoption isn’t just about new technology; it’s a shift in how industries approach skills development. The most valuable skills in an AI-driven world are those machines can’t replicate: critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. Training programmes that blend these skills with AI knowledge will be crucial for the water sector to maximise new technology.
As AI continues to reshape industries, the water sector has a chance to lead in responsible adoption. By prioritising training and upskilling, the industry can ensure AI is used effectively to improve efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and bolster long-term resilience. Unlocking AI’s potential isn’t just about the technology; it’s about the people using it. The water sector must embrace this challenge, or risk being swept away by the tide of technological change.
