France’s First Smart Water Network Cuts Water Loss and Strengthens Drought Resilience on the Côte d’Azur

With the region facing repeated drought alerts and up to 50% water loss from leaking pipes, the project sets a national blueprint for smart, sustainable water systems. Developed by Eau d’Azur, the water and sanitation service of Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis, in partnership with Xylem and the University of Côte d’Azur, the three-year “Act and Innovate for Water” project is backed by €4 million from France’s environment agency ADEME under the France 2030 plan.

“For the first time, operators can monitor nearly 3,000 kilometers of network in real-time,” said Jaime Barba, General Manager, Xylem Vue. This project shows how digital innovation can transform daily operations and strengthen communities’ resilience against future water challenges.”

Real-Time Intelligence for a Water-Secure Future

At the heart of the network is a digital water management system that integrates thousands of data points from sensors and smart meters into a modular, interoperable platform. The system, called Xylem Vue, gives operators real-time insights to detect faults, anticipate disruptions, and respond faster to issues like equipment failures or sudden demand spikes. For residents, this means fewer service interruptions, faster repairs, and smarter conservation alerts during water-scarce periods.

Research by Xylem and Global Water Intelligence shows that smart water systems can reduce the cost of drought resilience by up to 20%. Digital technologies including real-time leak detection and predictive maintenance can also reduce water loss by 30%. The project also aims to cut energy use by 20%, supporting France’s broader climate goals.

"Knowledge of water resources is essential to act on its governance and uses. Innovating together with the region's stakeholders we will succeed in providing solutions to manage this resource ever more sustainably and anticipate its future," said Jeanick Brisswalter, President of Université Côte d'Azur.

AI-Powered Operations and Community Impact

Within the platform, artificial intelligence (AI) applications will forecast water demand and availability, optimize withdrawal and treatment, and support faster, data-driven decisions. A chatbot interface will simplify complex data into actionable guidance for operators, making the system not just smarter, but more accessible.

A joint study by Bluefield Research and Xylem highlights the growing adoption of AI in water utilities, driven by its ability to tackle critical challenges like detecting leaks, streamlining processes, and automating services.