The Dutch water sector is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. Climate change, aging infrastructure, stricter regulations, and growing pr...

Published on by

The Dutch water sector is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. Climate change, aging infrastructure, stricter regulations, and growing pressure on water quality and availability demand a fundamentally different approach to water management. At the same time, the rise of digital technologies – from AI to digital twins – presents a unique opportunity to turn these challenges into sustainable solutions. Speaking on the topic is Guido van Dinther, Business Unit Manager at ICT Group.
The digital water transition
“At ICT Group, we believe that data and intelligence are the driving forces behind the water management of tomorrow,” says Van Dinther. In the coming years, water authorities and drinking water companies are expected to make significant investments in digitalization, ranging from smart treatment plants to predictive water level management. “But technology is only as powerful as the way it's applied. That’s why we focus on integrated systems thinking, seamlessly connecting operational technology (OT) with information technology (IT).”

With over 45 years of experience in the OT domain and mission-critical systems, ICT Group deeply understands the challenges their clients face. “Our solutions help organizations transition to data-driven operations, for example, by combining real-time data from sensors, SCADA systems, and external sources. This creates a comprehensive view of the water system. And that integrated view is crucial for future-proof water management,” Van Dinther explains. The rise and rapid development of AI is also opening up new possibilities. “By using AI for predictive management, from forecasting peak loads in wastewater treatment plants to anticipating droughts or floods, AI enables proactive rather than reactive water management.”

Efficient Operations
Integrated systems thinking also requires a new mindset and way of collaborating within organizations. “We often see that IT and OT departments in water authorities and drinking water companies still operate in silos. To efficiently address the challenges in the water sector, it’s essential that these departments work more closely together. Only then can we achieve a truly integrated approach and fully leverage the opportunities that technology offers,” says Van Dinther. As a result, water authorities and drinking water companies can operate more efficiently, through process optimization in treatment plants, intelligent control of pumping stations, and automated asset monitoring, for example.

foto
Embracing Open Technology
Another opportunity Van Dinther sees in the market is the adoption of open technology. “At ICT Group, we support open standards and interoperable platforms, ensuring that systems remain flexible, scalable, and future-proof,” he says. ICT Group’s strength lies not only in its deep domain knowledge of the water sector but also in its experience with vital infrastructure and its collaborations with technology partners such as Microsoft, Siemens, Schneider, and ABB. Van Dinther explains: “We don’t build generic, off-the-shelf software — we create tailor-made solutions that match the unique challenges of our clients. In doing so, we leverage as much innovation and proven technology from our partners as possible. Proven technology is a key consideration because we know better than anyone that core processes must always come first and run 24/7. That’s why making systems and solutions cyber secure, in accordance with the latest guidelines and regulations, is essential. We support many of our current clients in implementing this.”
SOURCE: https://www.ict.eu/en/newsroom/news/digital-water-transition

Media

Taxonomy