Digital Twins Gain Ground in Water Utilities

Utilities are expanding digital twin technology to monitor pipelines, predict failures and manage ageing water infrastructure  

4 Mar 2026

Digital twin technology is gaining traction among water utilities as operators seek new ways to manage ageing infrastructure and improve oversight of complex networks.

Industry discussions at the Autodesk University 2025 Water Summit in Nashville highlighted closer collaboration between utilities, engineering firms and software providers to develop digital models of water systems. Participants said digital twins are becoming central tools for integrating operational data and improving long-term infrastructure planning.

A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical network that combines engineering models with real-time data from sensors and operational systems. By mirroring conditions in pipelines, pumps and valves, the technology allows operators to analyse system behaviour, test operational scenarios and identify risks earlier than traditional monitoring methods.

For utilities responsible for thousands of miles of buried pipes, the potential benefits are significant. Engineers can track pressure patterns, monitor demand changes and assess asset performance across entire networks. Small irregularities in the data may signal leaks, pressure imbalances or early signs of pipe deterioration.

Several utilities have begun testing these capabilities. DC Water previously deployed a digital twin platform using modelling tools from Bentley Systems, combining operational data with network models to improve visibility across its distribution infrastructure. The project showed how digital modelling could support earlier detection of system problems and more targeted maintenance planning.

The push towards digital twins reflects a broader digital shift in the water sector. Utilities are increasingly deploying internet-connected sensors, geospatial systems and analytics platforms to build more integrated operational environments.

The need for better monitoring is growing. Much of the water infrastructure in the US was built decades ago and is nearing the end of its service life. Replacing pipelines and treatment assets will require substantial investment, making predictive maintenance and more efficient asset management priorities for many utilities.

Digital twins allow operators to test maintenance strategies, plan upgrades and prioritise spending using operational data.

However, challenges remain. Integrating legacy monitoring systems and ensuring strong cybersecurity protections for connected infrastructure continue to pose technical and operational hurdles as utilities expand digital capabilities.