During our mid-term event held in April we had the pleasure of hosting Andrea Di Piazza from Utilitatis, who shared an in-depth perspective on the state of water distribution networks in Italy and across Europe. His presentation laid bare the pressing challenges in the sector and charted a clear path forward grounded in digital innovation and targeted investment.
Many European water distribution systems—especially in Italy—are aging, fragmented, and underfunded. One of the most pressing issues? Leakages. Significant volumes of treated water are lost before reaching consumers, representing not only a waste of resources but also a growing environmental concern.
He also drew attention to regional disparities, particularly between northern and southern Italy. While some areas benefit from more advanced systems and consistent maintenance, others struggle with outdated infrastructure and limited investment capacity.
Why Digitalisation Matters
A key message from Andrea’s talk was the urgent need to digitalise water systems. By integrating digital tools—such as real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven management—utilities can enhance efficiency, reduce losses, and boost transparency.
Digitalisation also lays the groundwork for better governance. With reliable data, stakeholders—from municipalities to national regulators—can make smarter decisions, allocate resources more effectively, and foster trust among the public and investors alike.
Perhaps the most eye-opening figure Andrea shared was this: to meet infrastructure goals and close regional gaps, Europe needs to invest at least €100 per person annually in water systems. This investment is especially vital in underserved regions, such as southern Italy, where modernization efforts have lagged behind.
You can watch the full webinar recording below to hear Andrea’s full presentation and learn more about how the water sector can overcome its biggest challenges through collaboration, innovation, and smart policy.
