Digital Water

The Internet of Things is giving rise to a new group of influential companies in water: telecommunications companies. By providing the essential “rails” for data transmissions and connectivity, telecoms are well-positioned to leverage their unique positions at the center of the digitization of water. Globally, a growing roster of these players includes companies that are developing water-specific strategies because they see water as another potential pathway to capturing new sources of revenue.>>Learn More

The growing emphasis on connectivity and digital technology in the water & wastewater sector has led to an increase in attack surfaces for threat actors to exploit. These challenges are compounded by utilities’ budget and workforce limitations, increasing the sector’s vulnerability. In response, both established and startup solutions providers are building out dedicated cybersecurity capabilities for water and associated industries, while policymakers around the world are ratcheting up funding and regulatory pressure to protect critical infrastructure. >>Learn More

The digital software and digital technology segment is forecasted to be the fastest growing OPEX budget category from 2021 through 2030. While adoption of digital solutions typically occurs at higher rates among large and very large utilities, a group of digital vendors are increasingly targeting the lower end of the utility market. In doing so, they are launching new pricing and business models to better meet the needs and constraints of smaller utility service providers.

Following a wave of M&A-fueled geographic expansion and portfolio diversification, leading, global engineering firms are entering a period of rationalization. This has led to a shift in focus towards higher-growth, higher-margin opportunities, including digital water. The unveiling of new digital water brands and product offerings highlights the engineering firms’ evolving strategies and competitive positioning. >>Learn More

The COVID-19 pandemic has driven a newfound appreciation for digital technology in the global water sector, with utility staff relying on digital tools to maintain access to critical systems, assets, customers, and coworkers during lockdown. As utilities adjust to the “new normal,” the industry’s longstanding cultural barriers to digital innovation are expected to diminish, driving more rapid adoption of digital water solutions moving forward—particularly as utility leaders look ahead to future environmental, economic, and social shocks and stresses. >>Learn More