A governance analysis of the role of artificial intelligence in the European water sector

Digitalisation in the water sector is expected to address water-related challenges and support Europe’s Twin Transition (digital and green transition). However, there is a limited understanding among users and providers of digital public services regarding the specific conditions and complexities of digitalisation, innovation and water from a governance perspective. To increase our governance understanding on those subjects, we have selected three cases where artificial intelligence has been implemented in the water sector. The analysis uses the who-how-what analytical framework within the hierarchy, market, and network governance modes approach. We analyse and triangulate information obtained via secondary sources to achieve this objective. The analysis provides insights into the actors driving collaborative governance strategies to foster innovation. In the Netherlands case, we found a market approach; in Portugal, a mixed mode that combines hierarchical and network modes; and in the Polish case, a hierarchical mode. Despite the differences in the three cases, governmental actors play a key role, ranging from facilitating coordination and co-funding to direct involvement. Moreover, all the cases had a narrow innovation focus on environmental technologies to drive sustainability. Understanding the limitations of our research, we propose, as a next step, to conduct an in-depth case analysis, including primary sources of data. We also invite future research to expand the understanding of the complex interplay between disruptive technologies, innovation, and governance in the water sector.