The European Commission launched a call for evidence (https://aeur.eu/f/m27 ), on Wednesday 27 May, to prepare an EU-wide action plan on the digitalisation of the water sector, including an initiative aimed at the widespread rollout of smart meters. The online consultation is open until 24 June.
This initiative, announced in the 2025 European Water Resilience Strategy and included in the Commission Work Programme for 2026, aims to modernise water resource management through data-driven innovation (see EUROPE 13641/9).
The plan notably provides for a large-scale deployment of the Internet of Things (IoT), including connected sensors and meters, in order to improve real-time network management.
According to the Commission, smart meters can reduce water consumption by up to 25%, with digital systems providing additional savings of 5% to 8%, and a further reduction of 7% to 14% linked to leak detection.
The Commission also wants to gather data and best practice on the use of technologies such as artificial intelligence to improve the efficiency and resilience of infrastructure. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)