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A Blueprint for Leak Prevention & Detection
We thank every speaker and attendee who attended the Global Water Leakage Summit 2025, turning it into a truly collaborative platform. The room’s openness in dialogue, the depth of operational transparency, and the shared ambition elevated the conversation. It genuinely was a joint effort to redefine what smarter, faster, and better leak prevention and detection should look like across the global water sector.
Scarcity, Resilience, Trust: A Global Convergence
International water utility conferences can sometimes feel too fragmented, especially when regulatory environments vary widely. But this event broke that pattern. The volume of transferable insight stood out to everyone. Despite differing geographies, governance models, and operational structures, the everyday pressures of modern water leakage prevention & detection —scarcity, resilience, customer trust, and digital transformation—created a powerful basis for comparison, alignment, and shared progress.
What Happens When You Skip Straight to Smart
Global presentations—from the Philippines, Indonesia, Spain, and Côte d’Ivoire in particular—demonstrated what full digital transformation can look like when it’s unburdened by decades of inherited infrastructure. These operators bypass traditional stages entirely, going straight to digitalisation platforms, and Iot-first network strategies. The pace and clarity of execution were striking.
Culture, Capability, Cadence: Unlocking Transformation
Workforce readiness continues to be the defining factor, both as a catalyst and constraint, in the progress of an innovative water leakage prevention and detection system. The message was clear across every session and Q&A: upskilling, cultural alignment, and decisive leadership in digital adoption are non-negotiables. International operators provided examples, from Indonesia’s national training academy to Côte d’Ivoire’s real-time control centre, proving what’s possible when human capability matches technological ambition. Notably, more agile regulatory frameworks enable faster innovation cycles, allowing these utilities to test, refine, and scale at a pace many others still struggle to match.
Missed the Event? Don’t Miss the Intelligence
We’ve provided a brief overview on this site—just enough to highlight key themes from the standout presentations and the Q&A that followed. The bullet points alone, however, can’t capture the depth of thinking that unfolded over two days of discussion. For the real value, turn to the Strategic Report. It distils the nuance, intent, and forward direction behind each speaker’s message.
Well worth your investment and time.
Anglian Water’s Strategy for AMP8 Success
How SES Water Turned Data into Leak Reduction
Anglian Water’s Strategy for AMP8 Success
- Alex Rosenbaum, PR24 Portfolio Manager, at Anglian Water presented on how the company is tackling AMP8 leakage reduction targets. With a target to nearly halve leakage from 173 Ml/d in 2021-22 to 95.7 Ml/d by 2030, Alex underscored the urgency—and complexity—of the task.
- Key hurdles include regulatory expectations, customer engagement, and the increasing economic cost of further reductions. Anglian’s approach includes deploying data-led prioritisation, smart meters, and AI-driven analytics to proactively detect and manage leaks. Crucially, leakage is being treated not just as an operational issue but a capital strategy—balancing repair, renewal, and customer support through totex planning.
- Alex’s call to action? Futureproof networks by integrating digital tools, asset-level intelligence, and regulatory alignment into a coherent, long-term strategy.
A Satellite Strategy for Smart Leakage
How SES Water Turned Data into Leak Reduction
Anglian Water’s Strategy for AMP8 Success
- In a session that brought space-age tech down to earth, Sam Fox, Chief of Strategic Planning For Water detailed United Utilities pioneering use of satellite data to detect water leaks across 9,000 km of network. Working with ASTERRA and SUEZ, UU used synthetic aperture radar (SAR) to identify Points of Interest (POIs) linked to underground leakage. So far, 1,832 POIs have been identified, with 70 leaks confirmed from 88 inspections and 15 repaired on the spot. Sam showcased how satellite mapping feeds into GIS, supports field operations through a custom dashboard app, and complements United Utilities’ shift to predictive, data-led leakage management.
- With AMP8 targets driving change, satellite imagery is fast becoming an essential part of the leakage toolbox—especially in remote or rural regions. A 50% leak-confirmation rate makes this a compelling, scalable tool to embed alongside smart metering and pressure optimisation.
How SES Water Turned Data into Leak Reduction
How SES Water Turned Data into Leak Reduction
Turning Data into Value at EMASESA Metropolitana
- Jack Nicol of SES Water unveiled how their intelligent district metering strategy is helping them punch above their weight. Upgrading to NB-IoT loggers and integrating Aquasuite’s BURST platform, SES can now detect leaks within 45 minutes, localise them to 70–90% accuracy, and reduce runtime by over a day in some cases. Their smart network upgrade included better sensor resolution, automated anomaly detection, and cloud-based analytics—all with an eye on cutting water loss and improving customer service. The results? A 32% reduction in leakage in one case study, and a company-wide shift from reactive fixes to data-driven prevention.
- Smaller, regional utility, significant innovation.
Turning Data into Value at EMASESA Metropolitana
A Targeted Strategy for Mains Renewal and Network Calming
Turning Data into Value at EMASESA Metropolitana
- Cristóbal Madero de Miguel delivered a forward-looking presentation on how telemetry is being used not only to manage leakage but also to enhance customer value. With a goal to deploy 330,000 NB-IoT smart meters by 2026—covering 80% of users—EMASESA is leveraging real-time consumption data to detect tampering, respond faster to leaks, and empower customers via digital apps. Cristóbal emphasised that data must do more than inform operations; it should drive customer trust and support behavioural change. Underpinning this transformation is EMASESA’s “Digital Reservoir 5.0”—a centralised data lake powering predictive analytics and service optimisation.
- This isn’t just tech for tech’s sake. It’s a model for customer-first, climate-resilient water management.
A Targeted Strategy for Mains Renewal and Network Calming
A Targeted Strategy for Mains Renewal and Network Calming
A Targeted Strategy for Mains Renewal and Network Calming
- Yessenia Pineda of Affinity Water shared how the utility is strategically combining mains renewals with pressure management to tackle leakage and bursts. Using a structured, data-driven prioritisation framework, Affinity assesses asset health, burst history, and zone-specific needs to decide whether to renew pipes, calm pressure—or both. Pressure management proved highly cost-effective for leakage control, while mains renewal delivered stronger asset health benefits. By aligning interventions, Affinity maximises AMP8 value, avoids duplication, and improves outcomes across leakage, burst repairs, and customer supply interruptions. Their decision-making is underpinned by rich datasets—6,580 pipe condition samples, 15 years of burst data, and continuous DMA-level monitoring. This integrated, “non-regret” strategy is not just about fixing pipes—it’s about coordinating for performance and building resilience into the system.
How Orange County Is Rewriting the Water Loss Rulebook
A Targeted Strategy for Mains Renewal and Network Calming
A Targeted Strategy for Mains Renewal and Network Calming
- Rachel Davis of the Municipal Water District of Orange County presented a high-impact regional strategy for water loss control at the Global Water Leakage Summit. Facing stringent California water loss regulations, MWDOC is helping 27 agencies meet compliance by offering shared services—from water audits to acoustic leak detection, meter testing, and data validation. Two case studies highlighted the payoff: one agency surveyed 326 miles and found 60 leaks, helping increase its real loss standard by 138%. Another used MWDOC’s support to achieve a 51% increase through accurate audits and meter calibration. Rachel emphasised that leak detection isn’t just about fixing pipes—it’s a regulatory asset. With tighter water supplies and aggressive compliance timelines, Orange County’s proactive, evidence-led approach sets the benchmark for regional collaboration.
The New Tools Behind the UK’s Leakage Challenge
TAQA’s Strategic Roadmap to Autonomous Leak Detection
The New Tools Behind the UK’s Leakage Challenge
- Aiken Besley of the Environment Agency outlined why leakage reduction is no longer optional—it’s foundational to England’s water future. With a projected supply-demand deficit of 4,865 Ml/d by 2050, leakage must shrink by over 1,000 Ml/d to meet statutory goals. While 2023–24 saw record-low leakage, most water companies missed targets, and weather-driven bursts exposed vulnerabilities. Aiken called for smarter forecasting, proactive resilience, and innovation—particularly ahead of WRMP29. The Environment Agency is urging a shift from reactive to predictive leakage strategies, with smart meters, supply pipe focus, and mains renewal forming a balanced toolkit. The message was clear: leakage management is not just about pipes—it’s about future-proofing national growth and environmental security.
How Maynilad Found Leaks Hidden in Plain Sight
TAQA’s Strategic Roadmap to Autonomous Leak Detection
The New Tools Behind the UK’s Leakage Challenge
- Leo Jeriel Presa of Maynilad Water Services presented Project Outfall, a pioneering leak detection initiative that uses drainage systems and chlorine testing to trace underground leaks in Metro Manila. With NRW peaking at 43% in 2022, Maynilad developed a five-phase system: mapping drainage outfalls, validating strong flows, testing for chlorine (a sign of potable leakage), tracing leaks upstream, and conducting repairs. The approach successfully addressed difficult-to-detect, non-audible leaks, repairing 305 sites and recovering 100 MLD by 2024—cutting NRW to 39%. Case studies in HS Greymarville and HS Teresa showcased up to 9 MLD savings and pressure improvements. Leo emphasised cross-functional teamwork and timely intervention as the keys to urban leakage reduction.
TAQA’s Strategic Roadmap to Autonomous Leak Detection
TAQA’s Strategic Roadmap to Autonomous Leak Detection
TAQA’s Strategic Roadmap to Autonomous Leak Detection
- Mahmoud Al Hader from TAQA Distribution presented a bold digital vision for water networks. With 20–30% of global water lost to leaks and rising climate stress, TAQA is using AI, digital twins, and smart meters to build a predictive, resilient system in Abu Dhabi. Their platform offers 99.8% leak detection accuracy, 48-hour failure forecasts, and real-time localisation—reducing detection time by 85%. TAQA aims to cut water losses by 40%, extend asset life by 15 years, and avoid AED 700M in annual losses. With over 1.2 million smart meters already deployed and a roadmap to autonomous operations by 2032, TAQA’s approach blends operational intelligence with climate adaptation. It’s not just smart—it’s strategic.
Dynamic Networks and Model-Driven Detection
Rethinking Urban Water Security for the Climate Century
TAQA’s Strategic Roadmap to Autonomous Leak Detection
- Dr Ivan Stoianov of Imperial College London presented a cutting-edge approach to leak detection using hydraulic models and real-time sensor data. With AMP8 demanding faster, smarter, and more accurate responses, Ivan demonstrated two high-precision localisation methods—Iterative Regularised Inverse and Tuned Sensitivity Matrix—capable of pinpointing leaks as small as 1 l/s in complex distribution networks. Backed by a long-running field lab at Bristol Water, his results showed under-a-minute detection times and sub-300m accuracy when enhanced with wastewater metering and smart meter demand data. He advocated shifting from single-feed DMAs to dynamically adaptive networks with multi-inlet control, smarter valves, and pressure monitoring. The message? Acoustic-only approaches are outdated. Hydraulic model-based methods are the future of confident, resilient leak localisation.
Côte d’Ivoire’s Leakage Turnaround
Rethinking Urban Water Security for the Climate Century
Rethinking Urban Water Security for the Climate Century
- Vincent Gnalla of SODECI presented a compelling transformation of Côte d’Ivoire’s water sector at the Global Water Leakage Summit. With NRW at 37% in 2021, SODECI launched a five-pronged strategy: DMA rollout, IoT instrumentation, active leak detection, integrated operations, and social equity reforms through the TFPI project. The results were dramatic: NRW dropped to 19.6% by 2024, over 1 million customers now receive water, and leak density fell 89%. By combining technical innovation with social investment, SODECI has shown that reducing NRW and expanding access are not mutually exclusive. Their future lies in real-time modelling, predictive AI, and IoT-driven maintenance.
Rethinking Urban Water Security for the Climate Century
Rethinking Urban Water Security for the Climate Century
Rethinking Urban Water Security for the Climate Century
- Dr. Hassan Aboelnga’s slide pack directed the shift from leak-fixing to resilience-building. Citing historical Nile management and future climate scenarios, Aboelnga laid bare the Mediterranean region’s vulnerabilities: reduced rainfall, rising temperatures, water poverty, and infrastructure strain. His urban water security framework defined success as more than supply—it’s about affordability, ecological preservation, and equitable access. He highlighted the dangers of intermittent supply and the financial drain of NRW, proposing digital, data-driven approaches as essential.
- His “Five I’s” model—Integration, Innovation, Infrastructure, Institutions, Information—alongside the “PROACTIVE” strategy for hitting SDG6, offers a clear roadmap for futureproofing urban water. His closing message? Water security is no longer about risk avoidance—it’s about system transformation.
How Trustworthy Data is Powering Real-World Results
- Axel Rendahl of Thames Water laid out how trust in data is the foundation for smarter leakage management. Aiming to halve leakage by 2050, Thames is using smart meter data and deeper analytics to reveal what drives water use and Distribution Input (DI) changes. From seasonal consumption spikes to winter pipe bursts, smart meters now help explain complex patterns. Axel emphasised that leakage reporting is no longer a backend process—it’s central to strategy, planning, and customer understanding. By strengthening data assurance, upskilling staff, and making data visual and accessible, Thames is turning raw numbers into operational insight—and using it to inform targeted action.
Using Helium to Uncover Hidden Water Losses
- Alberto Jiménez presented a compelling case for using helium tracer gas to detect leaks in situations where acoustic methods fall short. Helium is safe, odourless, and highly mobile—making it ideal for complex or silent leak scenarios. The process involves injecting helium via diffusers for full dissolution in the water, tracking its movement, and detecting its escape at suspected leak points using precision sensors. In a 10 km trial, 12 leaks totalling 15 m³/h were found, with estimated savings of €70,000 per year. Particularly effective for deep, pressurised, or intermittently supplied networks, helium also reveals pipe condition, buried assets, and even illegal connections. No shutdowns, no digging, just clean, accurate insight. Jiménez's message was clear: when sound fails, helium speaks volumes.
Interactive Discussions
Interactive Discussions
- The small-group round table discussions were fundamental to the success of the event—not as a side note, but as the space where the day’s ideas were sharpened and stress-tested against operational reality. On the afternoon of Day Two, the chair guided a powerful close by inviting honest feedback, implementation insights, and practical strategies around some of the most complex and fast-moving topics in the programme. These were candid, from-the-ground reflections from those actively managing the consequences of technology change, regulatory shifts, and workforce transformation.
- One of the strongest reactions came from the session exploring using satellite communications as a layer to cut back on field surveys. Participants were genuinely surprised by how far the technology has progressed over the past 12 to 24 months. The idea that satellite is now viable, not just for extreme remotes, but for mainstream deployment, triggered fresh thinking.