Europe’s Stormwater Systems Go Live With Data

As climate pressure mounts, European utilities are testing real-time stormwater systems that promise faster decisions and smarter spending

5 Feb 2026

Europe’s stormwater sector is moving towards wider use of real-time monitoring and control, as utilities and city authorities look for new ways to manage flood risk and meet tighter environmental standards.

Systems that combine sensors, data platforms and automated controls are gaining attention as part of broader efforts to strengthen climate resilience and improve the performance of urban drainage networks. Technologies that were once limited to pilot projects or specialist use are now being considered within mainstream water management strategies.

The shift reflects pressure from several directions. Heavier and more frequent rainfall is testing ageing infrastructure, while regulators and the public expect quicker responses to surface flooding and pollution incidents. Many utilities are therefore reassessing traditional approaches based on manual inspections and fixed maintenance schedules, and are exploring tools that offer near real-time insight into network conditions.

This change in demand is influencing how suppliers position their offerings. Large water and infrastructure groups are increasingly presenting digital services as a core part of stormwater management, alongside pumps, valves and other physical assets. Xylem has expanded its focus on data and analytics within utility operations, while Schneider Electric is promoting closer integration between stormwater systems and wider urban infrastructure. Veolia has highlighted modular digital solutions that allow cities to adopt new capabilities gradually, rather than through large one-off upgrades.

Industry participants say these developments point to a broader shift in procurement. Utilities are no longer buying individual technologies in isolation, but are assessing how combined hardware, software and services perform under stress. This is encouraging vendors to offer more integrated and scalable platforms.

Advocates argue that such systems can reduce operating costs, improve flood management and help justify investment decisions with clearer performance data. Service-based and subscription models may also appeal to municipalities facing budget constraints by spreading costs over time.

However, adoption remains uneven. Utilities continue to weigh concerns over long-term costs, data security, reliance on single suppliers and internal skills. In response, vendors are offering pilot schemes, interoperable designs and expanded support services.

Interest in real-time stormwater control is nonetheless growing. As climate uncertainty increases, digital insight is becoming harder for utilities to ignore, and suppliers that can deliver reliable outcomes are likely to shape the next phase of Europe’s stormwater market.