Smart Meters Are Reshaping How Europe Uses Water

New EU-backed research shows smart water meters deliver fast, verifiable savings and are becoming central to Europe’s water resilience plans

16 Jan 2026

Europe’s water utilities have long argued that digital tools could help curb household consumption. New research coordinated by WE Data Europe suggests that the evidence is now clear, with smart water meters delivering measurable reductions in daily use.

The study, supported by Belgian research institute VITO, finds that advanced digital metering systems can cut residential water consumption by up to 25 per cent. The strongest effects were seen in apartment buildings where digital sub-metering replaced shared or estimated billing, giving residents direct responsibility for their own use.

Even households that already had mechanical meters reduced consumption further after switching to fully digital systems that provide real-time data and alerts. The research draws a clear distinction between older meters, which simply record total use, and smart meters that combine individual accountability with continuous feedback.

“Digital sub-metering fundamentally changes consumer awareness,” said Bart Lammens, managing director of WE Data Europe. When people receive clear and frequent information about their own consumption, behaviour changes quickly, he said.

Leak detection emerged as another major benefit. Smart meters can flag unusual patterns early, allowing faults to be fixed before significant losses build up. This reduces wasted water and eases pressure on ageing distribution networks.

The findings are beginning to influence policy and investment decisions. Utilities across Europe are accelerating smart meter rollouts, while governments are aligning spending with the European Water Resilience Strategy 2025. The strategy prioritises efficiency and demand management rather than expanding supply, and digital metering allows progress to be monitored in real time.

Beyond savings, the technology offers utilities better demand forecasts and closer engagement with customers. Regulators also gain more reliable data, helping them assess whether efficiency targets are being met.

However, the study notes that challenges remain. Upfront costs, data protection, privacy concerns and the effect of lower consumption on utility revenues all require careful management. Researchers argue that digital systems work best when combined with clear communication and quick operational responses.

Even so, the direction of travel appears set. Smart water meters are moving from pilot projects to core infrastructure, reshaping how Europe manages one of its most critical resources.