The use of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, enhanced sensors, and digital platforms is already optimizing water distribution systems, reducing Non-Revenue Water (NRW), and improving leak detection, according to a report by Xylem Vue.
Water loss control is a critical issue for utilities across the globe. As several studies indicate, the total global Non-Revenue Water (NRW) amounts to 30% of total water input, with the economic cost of lost water reaching USD 39 billion per year (IWA Water Practice & Technology). In this context, optimizing water distribution systems and reducing unaccounted-for water—while enhancing leak detection—is essential to ensure continuous improvement in hydraulic efficiency.
Innovations in real-time data analytics and the sectorization of distribution networks into District Metered Areas (DMAs) are providing more precise, faster, and cost-effective tools. “DMAs are a useful tool for dividing a water network into manageable sections. Utilities can calculate water balances and detect areas with excessive losses by monitoring inflows and outflows within each DMA, with virtual DMAs offering a more flexible and cost-effective alternative,” explains Pablo Calabuig, VP Americas at Xylem Vue.
The use of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, enhanced sensors, and digital platforms is already enabling better management and protection of water resources, as highlighted in the report “Water Technology Trends 2025: Revolutionizing Water Management”, published by the Xylem Vue platform, created through the alliance between Xylem and Idrica. The document also identifies five digital solutions for water loss control.
1. Digital Twins
Their ability to provide a comprehensive view of the system and simulate different scenarios allows utilities to analyze responses under various conditions. According to Xylem Vue, digital twins drive operational and planning efficiency by offering an integrated view of the network, enabling informed decisions that reduce energy costs and optimize hydraulic parameters.
2. Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
The implementation of AMI is another key technological trend in drinking water distribution systems. Unlike Automatic Meter Reading (AMR), AMI goes a step further by not only performing remote readings but also integrating and processing data through Big Data technologies, relying heavily on digital platforms.
In utilities where AMI is already established, “the next challenge will be to receive data with finer temporal granularity, making water consumption data available in intervals shorter than one hour,” notes Xylem Vue.
However, the key issue lies in how data is used. As Manuel Parra, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing at Xylem, points out, “many utilities have installed systems such as SCADA and AMI, but they operate in isolation. Integrating data from these platforms provides a holistic view of water systems, breaks down information silos, and ensures that both field operators and managers have access to actionable insights.”
3. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Thanks to advances in infrastructure sensing, GIS systems now integrate an ever-growing flow of information—such as pipe materials, installation dates, and incident history—helping to prevent failures that could cause serious material damage. These systems can represent any data with a geospatial component, from satellite imagery and sensor data to vector information, enabling more informed decision-making in water supply networks.
4. Benefits of Sectorization
Real-time data analytics and sectorization offer an advanced solution for detecting and controlling leaks within distribution networks. By dividing a water network into smaller sections, utilities can calculate water balances and identify high-loss areas by monitoring inflows and outflows in each sector, thus improving service quality.
5. Advanced Leak Detection Techniques
Technologies such as acoustic monitoring, fiber optics, and real-time data analytics from smart meters and pressure sensors can further enhance water loss control. These enable utilities to identify and repair leaks quickly. Moreover, integrating these systems with analytical platforms creates a continuous feedback loop to improve network efficiency.