2.3 Green urban energy solutions in the Asia-Pacific region - Energy efficiency for water utilities

Energy production is a significant water consumer. The global energy sector accounted for approximately 10% of total global freshwater withdrawals in 2021, equating to around 370 billion cubic meters (IEA, 2023aIEA (2023a). Clean energy can help to ease the water crisis. International Energy Agency. Available at: [accessed May 2025].). This significant water use spans all phases of energy production and conversion, from fossil fuel extraction and processing to electricity generation to biofuel cultivation. Nearly 90% of global electricity generation relies on water, mainly for cooling thermal power plants and for hydropower (ETH, 2025)ETH (2025). Water-Energy Nexus. Available at: 2024].. As a result, reliable power generation is highly dependent on consistent access to freshwater, making it vulnerable to water scarcity. On the other hand, the extensive demand for water also relies on energy and requires electricity for every step of the water cycle, from extracting water from lakes or rivers to delivering clean drinking water and treating wastewater. This interlinkage and mutual dependence between water and energy systems is known as the water-energy nexus. It is anticipated to grow in importance as increasing demand and mounting pressures on both resources are driven by economic development, population growth and the impacts of climate change (IEA, 2024aIEA (2024a). Energy and Water. Available at: 2024].).

The Asia-Pacific region is predominantly water-stressed (ESCAP, 2013)ESCAP (2013). Water, Food and Energy Nexus in Asia and the Pacific. Bangkok: United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), Available at: .. As population growth and urbanization continue to rise, cities experience significant resource demands. For instance, China’s power sector has traditionally depended on thermal power generation ⁽¹⁾Thermal power generation burns fuel to heat water, creating steam that drives turbines to generate electricity. which requires large amounts of freshwater for cooling. Figure 2.10 shows that in 2014 around 48 billion cubic meters (bcm) of freshwater was used for power generation in China, representing about 8% of the nation’s total freshwater. Similarly in India, the total water consumption for electricity generation is projected to increase by up to 4 billion cubic meters by 2030 and expected to account for nearly 9% of national water consumption by 2050 (IRENA and WRI, 2018IRENA and WRI (2018). Water use in india’s power generation: Impact of renewables and improved cooling technologies to 2030. Abu Dhabi: International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA); World Resources Institute (WRI).).

Asia is also home to more than a third of the world’s total hydropower generation, led by China, India and Japan. Unlike thermal plants, hydropower plants do not directly consume water. They are dependent on reliable water flow and are therefore highly vulnerable to changes therein, for example from climate change and competing uses of water.

Given this context, the energy sector is projected to use an increasing share of available water resources in the region, while competing demands for freshwater continue to rise due to growing population, urbanization and water-intensive agriculture. More than 75% of Asia experiences water insecurity, with climate change further exacerbating the situation (FAO, 2023)FAO (2023). Water scarcity in Asia-Pacific casts a dark cloud over World Food Day, where the message ‘Water is life, water is food’ takes on a special urgency. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Available at: . Extreme weather events – such as intense rainfall, floods, droughts and sea level rise – are disrupting water availability and, in turn, directly impacting energy production (IRENA, 2024bIRENA (2024b). Geopolitics of the energy transition: Energy security. Abu Dhabi: International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Available at: .). Measures to mitigate and adapt to climate change can further impact surface and groundwater availability and their users (EU, 2021)EU (2021). Understanding the climate-water-energy-food nexus and streamlining water-related policies. Brussels: European Commission, Available at: .. At the same time, as water becomes harder to access, more energy is needed to pump it from deeper underground or distant sources, or for treating water extracted from alternative sources (e.g. seawater or brackish water). Singapore is a key example in Asia, using significant energy to tackle its water scarcity, with daily water demand reaching 1.73 million m³ (ESCAP, 2013)ESCAP (2013). Water, Food and Energy Nexus in Asia and the Pacific. Bangkok: United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), Available at: .

Utilizing the most energy-efficient equipment in water supply systems is essential for conserving both water and energy, as water extraction and distribution can account for up to 65% of the total energy used in the urban water cycle (UNEPCCC, 2023UNEPCCC (2023). Water-energy Nexus in Urban Water Supply Systems. Copenhagen: United Nations Environment Programme – Copenhagen Climate Centre (UNEP-CCC), Available at: .). Advanced IoT technologies can help reduce leakages and other water losses (non-revenue water) in the region, improving the efficiency of the water supply systems. Renewable energy can further strengthen the water-energy nexus in Asia, for example, solar PV and wind do not require water in the electricity generation process. These renewable sources can also be integrated into existing thermal plants to meet part of the energy needs, reducing reliance on water-intensive cooling systems typically powered by fossil fuels.

Water innovation is crucial in the Pacific region as well where limited access to piped water and high costs make affordability a major challenge. In Papua New Guinea, only 9% and in the Marshall Islands, 3% have access to piped drinking water (UNESCO, 2024UNESCO (2024). The Water, Energy, and Food Security Nexus in Asia and the Pacific: The Pacific, Water security in a new world, Bangkok: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).). With such challenges in ensuring reliable freshwater, seawater desalination has become a vital solution in some areas. Such technologies are explored in more detail in the following sections.

Technological development and trends

Saving water and energy by reducing non-revenue water in urban supply systems

Moving water requires a lot of energy because it is heavy and cannot be compressed like gas. Water utilities primarily use energy to power pumps to transport water through pipes, lift it to higher elevations and force it through treatment systems to supply consumers with clean water. However many cities in Southeast Asia lack good infrastructure for water supply and distribution systems (Edwards, 2024)Edwards, Chris (2024). The ten challenges of water management in SE Asia. Inside Water. Available at: https://insidewater.com.au/the-ten-challenges-of-water-management-in-se-asia/. This leads to increased energy consumption, as old pipes cause water losses that demand more pumping and treatment to compensate. Across Asia, water utilities lose between 5% and 50% of their daily production (ADB, 2016)ADB (2016). Asian water development outlook 2016: Strengthening water security in Asia and the Pacific. Phillipines: Asian Development Bank, Available at: https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/189411/awdo-2016.pdf. (figure 2.11). This persistent challenge, known as non-revenue water (NRW), affects the financial viability and efficiency of water systems, making it a major concern for water utilities in the region. Therefore, reducing NRW is key to attaining energy efficiency in urban water supply.

Advanced technologies for managing water pressure and detecting leaks include smart pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) and smart water meters equipped with IoT technology such as digital sensors, real-time data analytics, remote communication and automation to optimize water management. They provide real-time alerts when abnormal water flow occurs, signaling potential leaks, and can be remotely monitored and controlled to reduce water loss and improve efficiency. Additionally, ultrasonic flow meters detect sudden changes in water flow using sound waves, while transient pressure ⁽²⁾Transient pressure is the rapid, short-term changes in the pressure within a pipeline or fluid system, which can be much higher than the normal operating pressure of the piping system and can cause damage to pipes, fittings or other infrastructure. monitors identify pipes under stress, highlighting areas at risk of leakage.

Aging infrastructure and rising water leakage are also major issues in Pacific regions like Australia and New Zealand, where much of the infrastructure is over 50 years old. With prolonged droughts stressing municipal water supplies, cities like Sydney lose billions of liters annually due to NRW, while in Wellington, over half of the pipes need replacement (Trelleborg, 2021Trelleborg (2021). A watertight future: Trenchless pipe rehabilitation in the Asia-Pacific. Trelleborg: Trelleborg, Available at: https://www.trelleborg.com/en/seals-and-profiles/news-and-events/2021-pipe-repair-apac.). Trenchless pipe rehabilitation offers a non-invasive, cost-effective solution to repair or replace underground pipes with minimal environmental impact. It involves a cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining method where a resin-coated liner is inserted into the existing pipe, which hardens to form a new pipe inside the old one. There is also the slip lining method that inserts a smaller pipe into the existing one, reducing its diameter but restoring functionality without extensive digging.

Apart from the leakages, greater challenges of NRW lie in illegal connections, water theft, metering inaccuracies and inefficient billing systems, which make up 50% to 65% of NRW in Asia (ADB, 2007)ADB (2007). Curbing Asia’s Nonrevenue Water. Philippines: Asian Development Bank, Available at: https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/28831/water-brief-nonrevenuewater.pdf.. For example, in Ho Chi Minh City, the utility reduced NRW from 42% to 31% in under a year by only updating its customer database to identify thieves and adjusting water pressure to minimize leaks, resulting in annual savings of $1.4 million. Reducing NRW in Asia requires strong governance, utility autonomy to allow the service providers to adopt new technologies, and accountability to regulators and the public. Furthermore, economic incentives for water utilities through benchmarking NRW can enhance water management (UNEPCCC, 2023UNEPCCC (2023). Water-energy Nexus in Urban Water Supply Systems. Copenhagen: United Nations Environment Programme – Copenhagen Climate Centre (UNEP-CCC), Available at: https://unepccc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/water-energy-nexus-brief-2023-web.pdf.).

Low service coverage often goes hand in hand with high NRW (ADB, 2014)ADB (2014). Urban Water Supply and Sanitation in Southeast Asia: A Guide to Good Practice. Philippines: Asian Development Bank, Available at: https://www.pseau.org/outils/ouvrages/adb_urban_water_supply_and_sanitation_in_southeast_asia_a_guide_to_good_practice_2014.pdf.. In the Philippines, where NRW is high due to illegal connections, a temporary low-cost solution known as “Temfacil” (temporary facility) is implemented. This approach involves laying galvanized iron pipes above ground, often embedded in cement, replacing old pipelines prone to unauthorized taps. Such a facility also extends water access to low-income and flood-prone areas where permanent pipelines are not feasible. In parallel, community-run cooperatives help reduce illegal connections and water theft by providing affordable and reliable potable water. More solutions for reducing NRW are covered in the Green Technology Book energy solutions and climate change adaptation editions.

Energy-efficient motors, pumps and aerators for water supply and treatment

Advanced motor technology with higher torque and power density can reduce energy losses by nearly half compared to traditional motors (WIPO, 2024cWIPO (2024c). Green Technology Book. World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Available at: https://www.wipo.int/green-technology-book-adaptation/en/ [accessed May 2024].). Energy efficiency improvements can be achieved by upgrading traditional motor-pump sets to smart systems with the addition of digital sensors that can monitor and optimize their performance autonomously. Smart multi-pump systems can further control and manage multiple pumps at once. Based on real-time data derived from sensors (such as pressure, flow rate or demand), this interconnected system can start, stop or adjust the speed of individual pumps to maintain optimal performance, which saves energy. Further energy efficiency can be achieved by installing variable speed drives (VSD) that adjust the speed of a pump or motor according to the required water flow, with on-off functioning rather than operating at full speed constantly. Box 2.5 provides more information on motor technologies.

Simpler ways to manage water flow while saving energy involve replacing old suction and discharge pipes. This reduces resistance, allowing for smoother water flow and making pumps work less, which saves energy. Retrofitting pumping stations with gravity-fed systems can also minimize energy use by letting water flow downhill with little need for pumps. Additionally, optimizing operations – like shifting pumping to off-peak hours and upgrading facilities with energy-saving measures (efficient lighting, ventilation, insulation) – improves energy efficiency in urban water supply systems.

Energy-efficient aeration is crucial for effective wastewater treatment

In traditional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), the aeration process accounts for nearly 60% of the facility’s total energy consumption (Wang et al., 2023Wang, Chaoqi, Shi-Hai Deng, Na You, Yi Bai, Pengkang Jin and Jie Han (2023). Pathways of wastewater treatment for resource recovery and energy minimization towards carbon neutrality and circular economy: technological opinions. Front. Environ. Chem, 4 - 2023.). The aeration process enhances the dissolution of oxygen in water, promoting the growth of aerobic microorganisms that break down organic pollutants. Surface aeration is the oldest and most common method which uses electric motors to drive mechanical devices like paddle wheels or floating aerators. More energy-efficient aeration technologies include bubble diffusers which produce fine bubbles with a greater surface area-to-volume ratio than traditional diffusers, allowing for more oxygen to dissolve in water while consuming less energy. Further, coupled with automated control systems that adjust airflow based on real-time conditions, the treatment process can ensure that energy is only used when necessary.

In China and Japan, membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are being increasingly adopted in urban environments to improve wastewater management and water recycling. Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactors (MABRs) offer an energy-efficient solution by delivering oxygen directly to bacteria through a gas-permeable membrane, which allows for more efficient oxygen usage in biological processes. See also Green Technology Book adaptation and energy editions for more details. Additionally, anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBR) work without aeration, which reduces energy use; they also produce biogas as a potential energy source. Advanced technologies like high-speed blowers further optimize energy usage in water treatment systems by improving the efficiency of the aeration process. Countries like China and Japan are already adopting this technology. More details are in the technology solutions section.

Advancing desalination technologies in Asia to tackle water scarcity

By 2050, over half of the world’s population are projected to live in water-scarce regions, with Asia accounting for 73% of those affected (Infrastructure, 2022Infrastructure, SouthEast Asia (2022). Using Seawater: Desalination in SEA. SouthEast Asia Infrastructure, Available at: https://southeastasiainfra.com/using-seawater-desalination-in-sea/.). More frequent droughts and floods due to climate change are making water management more challenging, while sea level rise, combined with groundwater extraction, is giving rise to saltwater intrusion, threatening the supply of freshwater. For instance, more than 75% of provinces in the Mekong River delta in Viet Nam are affected by seawater intrusion (Cong, 2018)Cong, Vo Huu (2018). Desalination of brackish water for agriculture: challenges and future perspectives for seawater intrusion areas in Vietnam. Journal of Water Supply: Research and Technology-Aqua, 67(3), 211–17.. The growing demand for freshwater has driven greater reliance on desalination, a technology that separates saline water (seawater or brackish water) into freshwater and concentrated salt (brine) (IEA, 2024bIEA (2024b). Energy is vital to a well-functioning water sector. Available at: https://www.iea.org/commentaries/energy-is-vital-to-a-well-functioning-water-sector 2025].). However, desalination is an expensive and energy-intensive process that contributes significantly to GHG emissions due to the energy required to power the process, particularly in countries with carbon-intensive electricity grids (Eyl-Mazzega and Élise Cassignol, 2022)Eyl-Mazzega, Marc-Antoine and Élise Cassignol (2022). The Geopolitics of Seawater Desalination. Paris: Ifri, Available at: https://www.ifri.org/en/studies/geopolitics-seawater-desalination#:~:text=In%20the%20Indo%2Dpacific%20region,industries%20and%20decreasing%20available%20water.. Energy costs alone account for 33% to 50% of the total cost of desalination operation (Shtelman, 2019Shtelman, Gregory (2019). Desalination Has No Known Negative Impacts on the Environment: True or False? IDE Technologies. Available at: https://ide-tech.com/en/blog/desalination-has-no-known-negative-impacts-on-the-environment-true-or-false/ [accessed December 2024].).

Asia already accounts for a significant share of global desalination capacity (AIIB, 2019)AIIB (2019). Asian Water Sector Analysis: A Technical Background for the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) Water Sector Strategy. Beijing: Asian Infrstructure Investment Bank, Available at: https://www.aiib.org/en/policies-strategies/operational-policies/water-sector-strategy/.content/_download/AIIB-Water-Sector-Analysis-Final.pdf.. While Singapore leads the way, with 25% of its water supplied through desalination, countries such as China, India, the Republic of Korea and Thailand are also increasingly adopting this technology (Tempest, 2019Tempest, Olivia (2019). Desalination is still a very small portion of the overall water balance in most Asian countries. Smart Water Magazine. Available at: https://smartwatermagazine.com/news/ide-technologies/desalination-still-a-very-small-portion-overall-water-balance-most-asian). Asian governments are investing in seawater desalination to build reliable and resilient urban water supply systems. Desalination plants can also be used for treating brackish water with lower salt concentrations.

Desalination energy demand varies by technology (Table 2.1). Reverse osmosis (RO), currently the most energy-efficient desalination technology, consumes 1 kWh to 8.5 kWh of electricity per cubic meter of treated water. It uses a high-pressure pump to force the water through a semi-permeable membrane at a pressure greater than the natural osmotic pressure, allowing only water molecules to pass while blocking most salts and impurities. In contrast, thermal desalination uses 70 MJ to 280 MJ of thermal energy (mainly from fossil fuels) and 1 kWh to 5 kWh of electricity per cubic meter of treated water, to evaporate seawater and run other components like pumps, fans etc.

Countries like China, India and Singapore are at the forefront of advancing RO membrane technologies, which is the primary option for the new desalination plants (ESCWA, 2017ESCWA (2017). Desalination through Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions in West Asia. Economic and Social Commission for West Asia, Available at: https://www.un.org/sites/un2.un.org/files/2020/08/case_study_7_-_desalination_through_sustainable_water_and_energy_solutions_in_west_asia.pdf.; Herber, 2024Herber, Gunnar (2024). What Are the Key Desalination Plants in Asia and How Do They Address the Region’s Water Challenges? Medium. Available at: https://medium.com/@desalter/what-are-the-key-desalination-plants-in-asia-and-how-do-they-address-the-regions-water-challenges-b3aa979c74c0#:~:text=Asian%20desalination%20plants%20largely%20utilize,oil%2Fgas%2Drich%20states). Also, major Australian coastal cities are using RO desalination. For instance, in Victoria, the Millennium Drought led to the development of an RO desalination plant to address critical water shortages. The plant now produces 150 billion m³ of purified water annually, showcasing how communities can adapt to extreme climate conditions by diversifying water sources with advanced desalination technology (DEECA, 2023)DEECA (2023). Desalination history. Victorian Government Australia. Available at: https://www.water.vic.gov.au/water-sources/desalination/desalination-history.

Advancement in pump efficiency, the adoption of energy recovery devices (ERDs) and improved membranes have made the RO desalination process further efficient, with ERDs cutting energy consumption by two or three times in both small- and large-scale systems. (Alghoul et al., 2009)Alghoul, M. A., P. Poovanaesvaran, K. Sopian and M. Y. Sulaiman (2009). Review of brackish water reverse osmosis (BWRO) system designs. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 13(9), 2661–67.; (Prante et al., 2014Prante, Jeri L., Jeffrey A. Ruskowitz, Amy E. Childress and Andrea Achilli (2014). RO-PRO desalination: An integrated low-energy approach to seawater desalination. Applied Energy, 120, 104–14.). The Jurong Island desalination plant in Singapore, equipped with advanced water treatment and membrane technologies like dissolved air flotation, ultrafiltration and RO, is about 5% more energy efficient than other existing plants in the country (Infrastructure, 2022Infrastructure, SouthEast Asia (2022). Using Seawater: Desalination in SEA. SouthEast Asia Infrastructure, Available at: https://southeastasiainfra.com/using-seawater-desalination-in-sea/.).

More advanced technology includes hybrid desalination which combines thermal desalination and RO. In this method, saline feedwater is partially desalinated with RO before thermal distillation, which lowers the salinity of the water entering the thermal process, reducing the energy needed for evaporation. Forward osmosis (FO) is also gaining attention as an energy-efficient solution in hybrid desalination. It works by using a semi-permeable membrane to separate water from dissolved solutes through an osmotic pressure gradient. Unlike reverse osmosis, it operates with low or no hydraulic pressure, lowering energy demands. Pilot projects in Southeast Asia are testing its use in desalination and industrial wastewater treatment.

CO₂ emissions from desalination can be reduced by integrating renewable energy, with solar and wind-powered RO being the most common methods. However, their intermittent nature can affect RO performance, potentially shortening the lifespan of membranes and pumps (Alawad et al., 2023)Alawad, Suhaib M., Ridha Ben Mansour, Fahad A. Al-Sulaiman and Shafiqur Rehman (2023). Renewable energy systems for water desalination applications: A comprehensive review. Energy Conversion and Management, 286, 117035.. Energy storage is crucial for continuous operation. Currently, renewable energy-powered desalination plants account for only 1% of global capacity (Jongkwan Park, 2022Jongkwan Park, Sungyun Lee (2022). Desalination Technology in South Korea: A Comprehensive Review of Technology Trends and Future Outlook. Membranes, 12(2).). In the Republic of Korea, renewable energy desalination facilities have been set up for energy self-sufficient island projects, including a small RO plant with solar PV and energy storage on Juk-do Island for 70 residents (Jongkwan Park, 2022Jongkwan Park, Sungyun Lee (2022). Desalination Technology in South Korea: A Comprehensive Review of Technology Trends and Future Outlook. Membranes, 12(2).). Recent innovations like plug-and-play RO systems with digital monitoring enable better membrane management and remote access for efficient operations (Asian Water, 2022)Asian Water (2022). New disruptive technology for desalination and water reuse in Asia Pacific. Asian Water. Available at: https://asianwater.com.my/new-disruptive-technology-for-desalination-and-water-reuse-in-asia-pacific/ [accessed December 2024].. For more desalination technologies see Green Technology Book on climate change adaptation and energy solutions.

Advanced water purification technologies

In addition to RO, Singapore is exploring other technologies, such as electro-deionization (removing salts through the adsorption of dissolved ions) and biomimicry (mimicking nature’s filtration process, like plants or fishes), to enhance desalination efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Box 2.6 provides details on electro-deionization. Various types of desalination batteries, such as rocking chair, redox flow and metal-air batteries, have been developed to improve desalination capacity. They use electro-chemical reactions to selectively capture and release salt ions from water.

Harnessing digital technologies for water management in Asia

By 2025, half of the utilities in major cities in the Global South are expected to integrate digital water supply solutions like advanced metering infrastructure (Amankwaa et al., 2021)Amankwaa, Godfred, Richard Heeks and Alison Browne (2021). Digital innovations and water services in cities of the Global South: A systematic literature review. Water Alternatives, 14, 619–44.. In Southeast Asia, advanced technologies like Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and sensors are being implemented to enable smart water grid systems which optimize the management of water distribution networks. GIS maps and analyzes networks for better planning, while ERP systems integrate functions like optimized resource allocation, billing and maintenance. SCADA systems allow remote management of processes and equipment, using sensor data to monitor key parameters (pressure, water purity, flow rates etc.) and automate real-time plant operations, improving efficiency and addressing issues like leaks system failures.

The Changi Water Reclamation Plant in Singapore hosts one of the world’s largest SCADA systems, with around 500,000 input-output points and a significant integration of programmable logic controllers, networked data communications and graphical interfaces, while in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, digital monitoring system reduced non-revenue water to less than 6% of the total water supplied (Infrastructure, 2019Infrastructure, SouthEast Asia (2019). Smart Monitoring: Role of SCADA systems in water and waste water industries. SouthEast Asia Infrastructure. Available at: https://southeastasiainfra.com/smart-monitoring/). Similarly, Malaysia’s largest water utility in Air Selangor has used intelligent leak detection tools to reduce NRW and identified near 295 leaks so far through the deployment of more than 160 sensors (Lu, 2023Lu, Shuping (2023). Ripple Effect: How digital transformation is solving water in Asia. Washington D.C.: Xylem. Available at: https://www.xylem.com/en-us/making-waves/water-utilities-news/ripple-effect-how-digital-transformation-is-solving-water-in-asia/.).

Wastewater to energy

Wastewater from households can be properly treated to remove solids, nutrients or harmful compounds, and reused as “reclaimed water.” This is increasingly seen as an alternative resource for fit-for-purpose applications, offering significant reductions in energy use, costs and environmental impact (Liao et al., 2021Liao, Zitong, Zhuo Chen, Yinhu Wu, Ao Xu, Junhan Liu and Hong-Ying Hu (2021). Identification of development potentials and routes of wastewater treatment and reuse for Asian countries by key influential factors and prediction models. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 168, 105259.). However, despite the potential, wastewater treatment and reclaimed water use remain underdeveloped across much of Asia, with 80% of wastewater in the region being discharged untreated (ADB, 2011ADB (2011). Wastewater Management and Sanitation in Asia and the Pacific. Philippines: Asian Development Bank, Available at: https://www.adb.org/features/promoting-wastewater-revolution-asia-adbs-plans-progress-and-initiatives#:~:text=Raising%20a%20revolution-,In%20the%20Asia%20and%20Pacific%20region%2C%20around%2080%25%20of%20wastewater,%2C%20fishing%2C%20bathing%20and%20swimming.; Liao et al., 2021Liao, Zitong, Zhuo Chen, Yinhu Wu, Ao Xu, Junhan Liu and Hong-Ying Hu (2021). Identification of development potentials and routes of wastewater treatment and reuse for Asian countries by key influential factors and prediction models. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 168, 105259.). This is mainly due to weak capacity, huge capital costs and lack of awareness (ADB, 2011)ADB (2011). Wastewater Management and Sanitation in Asia and the Pacific. Philippines: Asian Development Bank, Available at: https://www.adb.org/features/promoting-wastewater-revolution-asia-adbs-plans-progress-and-initiatives#:~:text=Raising%20a%20revolution-,In%20the%20Asia%20and%20Pacific%20region%2C%20around%2080%25%20of%20wastewater,%2C%20fishing%2C%20bathing%20and%20swimming.. Only 9% of wastewater is treated in India, 14% in Indonesia, 10% in the Philippines and 4% in Viet Nam (ADB, 2012)ADB (2012). Wastewater Management and Sanitation in Asia. Asian Development Bank. Available at: https://www.adb.org/features/wastewater-management-and-sanitation-numbers. Nevertheless, some countries have successfully integrated reclaimed water into their water resource management system, such as China, Japan and the Republic of Korea. Singapore, in particular, stands out as a global leader in water management with their advanced wastewater infrastructure.

Wastewater could play a significant role in climate solutions including generating biogas, heat and electricity, yielding up to five times the energy needed for treatment – enough to power around half a billion people annually (UNEP, 2023UNEP (2023). Down the drain lies a promising climate and nature solution – UN report. Nairobi: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Available at: https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/down-drain-lies-promising-climate-and-nature-solution-un-report.). For example, anaerobic wastewater treatment (AnWT) breaks down organic material using anaerobic microorganisms, producing biogas that offsets facility energy use and supports local power supplies, particularly in energy-scarce regions (Arthur et al., 2022)Arthur, P. M. A., Y. Konaté, B. Sawadogo, G. Sagoe, B. Dwumfour-Asare, I. Ahmed and M. N. V. Williams (2022). Performance evaluation of a full-scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor coupled with trickling filters for municipal wastewater treatment in a developing country. Heliyon, 8(8), e10129.. This process reduces GHG emissions by lowering energy consumption, substituting fossil fuels and recovering methane biogas (EBA, 2021)EBA (2021). The role of biogas production from industrial wastewaters in reaching climate neutrality by 2050. Brussels: The European Biogas Association (EBA), Available at: https://www.europeanbiogas.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Paper-The-role-of-biogas-production-from-wastewater-in-reaching-climate-neutrality-by-2050.pdf.. In Ullalu, Bangalore, a decentralized wastewater treatment project has successfully provided hot water and lighting for toilet complexes (Nes, 2006Nes, Wim J. van (2006). Asia hits the gas: Biogas from anaerobic digestion rolls out across Asia. Available at: https://un-csam.org/sites/default/files/2021-01/Asia%20Hits%20the%20Gas%20-%20Biogas%20from%20Anaerobic%20Digestion%20Rolls%20Out%20Across%20Asia.pdf.).

Emerging technologies of microbial fuel cells (MFCs)

A recent innovation in wastewater treatment is the microbial fuel cell (MFC), which enables water treatment facilities to generate electricity for immediate use while simultaneously treating and recycling wastewater, all without disrupting the atmospheric CO₂ balance. The CO₂ produced as a by-product of MFC operation can be safely discharged without the need for additional treatment (Kurniawan et al., 2022Kurniawan, Tonni Agustiono, Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman, Xue Liang, Muhammad Ayub, Hui Hwang Goh, Tutuk Djoko Kusworo, Ayesha Mohyuddin and Kit Wayne Chew (2022). Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC): A Potential Game-Changer in Renewable Energy Development. Sustainability, 14(24), 16847.). This technology uses specialized microbes that break down organic matter as wastewater flows through the system. As the microbes decompose the organic material, they release electrons, which are transferred to an electrode to generate electricity. This device shows great promise as a practical solution because it produces more energy than it consumes, is cost-effective and requires minimal maintenance.

Innovation examples

Singapore’s solution to water scarcity

Source: Singapore’s National Water Agency (PUB)

NEWater is Singapore’s high-grade recycled water, produced by further purifying treated, used water through a three-step process of ultrafiltration or microfiltration, reverse osmosis and ultraviolet disinfection. This advanced treatment makes it ultra-clean and safe for consumption. By continuously recycling water, NEWater enables Singapore to close the water loop, strengthening the country’s water security and resilience to climate change. Compared to desalination, it is more energy- and cost-efficient due to the lower salt content in treated used water. NEWater is mainly supplied to wafer fabrication plants, industrial estates, and commercial buildings for industrial and air-con cooling purposes. During dry periods, NEWater is also added to reservoirs to blend with raw water before being collectively treated at the water treatment plants for potable use. Currently meeting 40% of Singapore’s water demand, NEWater’s capacity is set to expand to 55% by 2060 (Fi Group, 2025)Fi Group (2025). NEWater: How Singapore Turned Water Scarcity into a Global Sustainability Triumph. Available at: https://global.fi-group.com/newater-how-singapore-turned-water-scarcity-into-a-global-sustainability-triumph/.

Sludge-to-hydrogen plant in Tokyo is producing hydrogen to fuel vehicles and generate power

Source: Japan Blue Energy Co., Ltd.

Japan Blue Energy Co., Ltd., a renewable hydrogen systems manufacturer, has completed a facility in Tokyo that converts sewage sludge into renewable hydrogen fuel for fuel cell vehicles and power generation. Located at the Sunamachi Water Reclamation Center near Tokyo Bay, the facility processes 1 ton of dried sewage sludge daily, producing 40 to 50 kilograms of hydrogen – enough to fuel 10 passenger cars or 25 fuel-cell e-bikes. It can also process plastic, paper, municipal waste, and other refuse. Waste is heated to high temperatures to form a gas from which hydrogen is extracted. The facility is carbon-neutral and operates on a closed-loop system, generating its own energy. Developed with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, TODA Corporation, TOKYU Construction, CHIYODA Kenko, and Tokyo University of Science researchers, the facility supports Japan’s growing demand for renewable hydrogen and offers an innovative solution for sustainable waste disposal (Japan Blue Energy Co., 2021Japan Blue Energy Co. (2021). Japan Blue Energy Launches Tokyo Renewable Hydrogen Production Facility. Available at: https://www.jbec.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Press-Release_20210330_English-version-1.pdf.).

Tackling non-revenue water (NRW) in Malaysia through digital monitoring and community engagement

Source: Xylem

Air Selangor, a major water utility in Malaysia, has partnered with Xylem to implement a long-term, state-wide monitoring program in Selangor. Xylem’s Water Loss Management solution uses real-time digital monitoring through a sensing platform that integrates leak, burst and surge detection to prevent early asset failures. By analyzing pressure transients and hydrophone data, the system quickly identifies pipe bursts and slow leaks, localizing issues within minutes. The automated 24/7 platform streamlines data analysis and visualization, helping repair teams prioritize responses. Xylem’s non-invasive surge detection provides early warnings by pinpointing pressure surges and identifying pipes at high risk, reducing premature failures and extending asset life. Launched in 2018 with 500 sensors, the program identified 65 major leaks in its first year. By January 2021, 1,600 sensors were active, detecting about two leaks weekly, totaling 295. Continuous monitoring helped reduce NRW from 33.3% in 2017 to 27.75% in 2023 (Xylem, 2022Xylem (2022). Xylem’s analytics solution in Malaysia detects leaks, bursts and pressure surges in real time. Available at: https://www.xylem.com/en-ie/making-waves/water-utilities-news/xylems-analytics-solutions-in-malaysia/). Air Selangor also launched a “Leak Reporting Campaign” via its app, encouraging the public to report leaks, bursts and illegal tapping incidents. As of December 2023, over 15,000 verified cases were reported through this campaign, contributing significantly to NRW reduction.

Technology solutions

Proven technologies

Water/energy efficiency: Ice Pigging™ cleaning of pipes to increase pumping efficiency

Suez Asia

Source: Getty Images/Mumemories

Ice Pigging™ is an efficient pipeline cleaning process, commonly used by water supply and sewage companies as well as a wide range of industries. It improves performance of the pipe network and saves energy costs as pumps and filtration plants work more efficiently. It utilizes a slurry of ice crystals that forms a semi-solid plug, called the Ice Pig™, which moves through pipes under pressure, detaching contaminants and carrying them out. This method cleans several kilometers of pipe in hours or smaller pipes in minutes, requiring minimal water (typically 1.5 pipe volumes) and no chemical use. Ice Pigging™ works with existing fittings, fitting various pipe sizes from 8mm to 600mm, and handles complex pipe geometries, including diameter changes and valves. It flows like a liquid and can melt and flush out if it gets stuck, making it safer than traditional pigging. The method reduces energy use, minimizes downtime and offers higher-quality cleaning than air scouring, without damaging pipes. It is a cost-effective solution as well, as it uses up to 50% less water compared to a typical swabbing operation.

• Contracting type: For service

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: Medium

• Place of origin: China

• Availability: Southeast Asia

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water/energy efficiency: smart water metering for water utilities

Kamstrup

Source: Kamstrup

A smart water meter uses ultrasonic technology to measure water usage and includes remote reading capabilities, advanced pressure monitoring, leak detection and data analytics for better water management. It not only tracks consumption accurately but also enhances customer relations, optimizes operations and safeguards revenue. With tools like the READy Manager, utilities can visualize individual water usage, detect leaks early and analyze water waste continuously, reducing costly field visits and water loss. The system monitors pressure surges, allowing operators to prevent leaks and bursts by identifying issues early. For high-priority areas, meters can be set to a five-minute reading interval, offering detailed network insights for optimizing operations and lowering energy costs. Pressure sensors strategically placed across the network provide data to adjust pressure, saving on operational and energy expenses while decreasing non-revenue water.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Denmark

• Availability: Worldwide

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Energy-efficient pumps/motors: water pump with pressure boosting system

Davey

Source: Getty Images/RonFullHD

The Davey BT Booster Pressure System combines a durable centrifugal pump with the intelligent Torrium2 pressure controller to deliver consistent, energy-efficient water pressure for homes and light commercial applications. Designed with large water pathways for reduced head loss, the system enhances hydraulic performance while minimizing energy waste. It is particularly suitable for boosting low municipal supply or transferring water from underground sources. It ensures constant flow operation even with varying demand or intermittent supply. The totally enclosed fan cooled (TEFC) motor, rated for high ambient temperatures and voltage fluctuations, along with its IP55 protection, provides dependable performance even in the hottest climates.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Australia

• Availability: Australia, New Zealand

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water/energy efficiency: all-in-one toolkit for cloud-based leak detection

Ovarro

Source: Getty Images/Toa55

EnigmaREACH is an advanced, cloud-based solution for large-scale leak detection using multi-correlating acoustic loggers. Designed for rapid, mass deployment, it covers extensive pipe networks with high accuracy and minimal hardware, leveraging automated correlation data to pinpoint leaks precisely. Equipped with either 32 or 64 Enigma loggers, a tablet, a dedicated app and access to the digital analytics platform, it streamlines logger deployment, data retrieval and follow-up. Automated processes quickly identify and assign points of interest (POIs), allowing field technicians to address issues faster, reducing water loss and operational costs. EnigmaREACH automates key tasks, including sound file analysis, POI assignment and efficient data management. It provides 24/7 data access and is ruggedly built for all-weather use. With a user-friendly interface, it reduces leak detection time by 75% and lowers operational costs by automating analytics and optimizing field tasks, delivering a reliable, end-to-end solution for leak detection and proactive water management.

• Contracting type: For sale/service

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: United Kingdom

• Availability: Worldwide

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: portable solar suitcase water purifier

NEWater

Source: AI Generated using ChatGPT 5.0

The solar suitcase water purifier is a compact, lightweight and modular unit designed for easy operation and portability. Equipped with foldable solar panels, it uses sunlight to continuously charge its battery, while an intelligent power management system ensures battery safety. This purifier provides safe water, and electricity for essential devices like mobile phones. The system is ready for immediate use with water inlet and outlet connections and supports various power sources, including AC, DC and solar. It features a built-in DC24V lithium battery for stable water production lasting 4–6 hours in emergencies, and the durable ABS casing has an IP65 waterproof rating with a secure waterproof seal. Integrated monitoring of total dissolved solids (TDS) allows real-time tracking of inlet and outlet water quality, while the space-saving design offers a compact, sturdy build for long-lasting performance. Meeting diverse purification needs, it produces both drinking and household water for multiple scenarios. It can be used for emergency and outdoor scenarios, such as disaster relief or post-earthquake recovery.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: Medium

• Place of origin: China

• Availability: Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Energy efficiency: energy-saving turbo blower for aeration in wastewater treatment

Robuschi

Source: Robuschi

Turbo blowers improve energy efficiency in wastewater treatment plants, lowering environmental and financial impacts. With high nominal efficiency, they can save up to 40% on energy. A wide turndown ratio adapts air output precisely to process demands, using centrifugal and positive displacement technologies like rotary lobe and screw blowers. Their compact design minimizes the space needed in compressor rooms, and oil-free air foil bearings enhance safety by eliminating contamination risk. The plug-and-play inverter simplifies installation, while a high-speed, direct-coupled permanent magnet motor reduces maintenance by omitting gears and belts, ensuring low vibration, quiet operation and lower total cost of ownership.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Italy

• Availability: Australia, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, United Arab Emirates

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: gravity-fed wastewater treatment system

ECOSTP Technologies

Source: ECOSTP Technologies

ECOSTP Technologies has developed a low-maintenance and energy-free sewage treatment system applicable to urban residential wastewater management. Inspired by the cow’s anaerobic digestion process, the system uses a three-stage Rumen Digester Filter and tertiary treatment via planted gravel filters to clean wastewater without electricity, chemicals or any moving parts. The process begins with anaerobic digestion in chambers that mimic the rumen, reticulum and omasum, where custom-seeded anaerobic bacteria break down organic matter through hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis and methanogenesis. This is followed by tertiary treatment using planted gravel filters, where microbial biofilms on plant roots and substrate remove pathogens, nutrients and residual contaminants. The resulting water meets reuse quality standards and is suitable for flushing, cleaning and gardening.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: Medium

• Place of origin: India

• Availability: India

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Energy-efficient pumps/motors: energy-efficient pump control with variable frequency drives (VFDs)

Franklin Electric

Source: Getty Images/yanik88

The DrivE-Tech Variable Frequency Drives enhance energy efficiency in pumping systems by adjusting motor speed to match demand, significantly reducing power consumption and operating costs. Compatible with vertical multistage, centrifugal and submersible pumps, it can be used for domestic, irrigation, commercial and HVAC applications in both new installations and retrofits. Its compact, die-cast aluminum IP55-rated enclosure is suitable for operation even in humid and dusty environments. It features integrated soft start and stop functions to extend system life and reduce peak variation, real-time monitoring and motor protection, and the ability to control a second or third pump at constant speed (DOL), ensuring long-term performance and flexibility.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: Medium

• Place of origin: United States of America

• Availability: Asia-Pacific, North America, South America

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: electodeionization technology for water treatment and purification

Memiontec

Source: Getty Images/PongsakornJun

Memiontec-MIT’s MIT-EDI™ system is an advanced continuous electro-deionization (EDI) technology that combines electric dialysis and ion exchange to effectively remove all types of cations and anions from water or wastewater to produce pure and ultra-pure water. It works without chemicals, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional methods. Its modular, compact design supports continuous operation with automatic controls, eliminating the need for regeneration cycles, chemical transport and wastewater handling. MIT-EDI™ delivers a low-footprint, cost-effective and environmentally responsible solution for high-purity water applications.

• Contracting type: For sale/service

• Technology maturity: Proven

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Singapore

• Availability: China, Indonesia, Singapore

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Frontier technologies

Water treatment: smart desalination with plug-and-play reverse osmosis (RO) technology

Veolia Water Technologies

Source: Veolia Water Technologies

The Barrel is a modular, plug-and-play RO or nanofiltration (NF) pressure vessel designed to deliver desalinated water that meets municipal and industrial standards. This scalable solution supports a range of capacities from 400 to 50,000 cubic meters per day per unit, making it suitable for wastewater reuse and low-pressure RO applications. Compact and ideal for outdoor installations, the Barrel reduces the required footprint by up to 25% and operates without a controlled environment, minimizing setup constraints. Additionally, it enhances energy efficiency by reducing electrical consumption to as low as 0.05 kWh per cubic meter of fresh water produced. The Barrel’s modular design allows it to replace existing RO membranes and NF skids, offering a sustainable, economically viable alternative. Integrated with a digital system and smart connectors, it provides real-time membrane performance updates, allowing for automated monitoring, remote access and informed operational decisions regarding membrane maintenance.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: France

• Availability: Worldwide

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water management: Water-as-a-Service (WaaS) for efficient water management

Ekopak

Source: Ekopak

WaaS is an innovative solution that helps companies manage their water needs, including production, treatment and recycling. This service by Ekopak takes over water management, ensuring a constant water supply without needing the company to hire its own staff. Ekopak designs, builds and maintains the water system sustainably, offering a leasing model where companies only pay for the recycled water they use. With this setup, customers can disconnect from the main water grid and switch to a circular water system. Ekopak’s container-based treatment units can purify off-grid sources like rainwater, surface water or wastewater for reuse in industrial processes, optimizing water consumption.

• Contracting type: For service

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Belgium

• Availability: Belgium, France, Netherlands, Philippines, , Singapore, Thailand, United States of America

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Energy-efficient pumps/motors: high-efficiency hybrid motor for water utilities

WEG

Source: WEG

The W23 Sync+ is a high-efficiency hybrid motor that combines permanent magnet (PM), ferrite or neodymium magnets and synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technologies, offering IE5 ultra-premium efficiency across all speeds. This permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motor (PMSynRM) operates over a wide speed range, eliminating the need for forced ventilation or external blowers. Therefore, it can be adopted in the applications requiring adjustable speeds and constant torque. The W23 Sync+ delivers up to 30% energy savings, maintaining efficiency even with variable loads, unlike conventional induction motors which lose over 20% efficiency at reduced speeds. The magnets generate their own magnetic field without requiring induction of currents. Therefore, they reduce the total motor losses. It’s ideal for compressors, pumps, fans, blowers and conveyors, providing higher efficiency, a better power factor and lower total cost of ownership. Available in frame sizes from IEC 80 to 450, the W23 Sync+ supports speeds from 750 to 6,000 rpm and outputs from 0.75 to 1,250 kW, with voltage compatibility across 220/380V, 230/400V, 240/415V and 400/690V. It is also compact, fitting in the same frame as IE3 motors, enabling easy replacement in existing systems.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Australia/Brazil

• Availability: Worldwide

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Energy-efficient pumps/motors: smart and energy-efficient motor with multi-pump control

Delta

Source: Getty Images/Super Mario

The Delta Motor Mounted Pump Drive (MPD) is a high-efficiency IE5 motor solution with smart multi-pump controls for residential and industrial water supply. It reduces energy consumption by up to 10% compared to traditional induction motor pumps and has flange dimensions compliant with IEC standards for seamless installation to existing systems. Built-in multi-pump control functions eliminate the need for additional programmable logic controllers (PLCs), cutting installation costs and saving wiring space, while one master pump can manage up to seven others based on demand. The Delta MPD’s auto load-sharing function saves up to 10% in energy, ensuring efficient performance. It also supports remote monitoring and commissioning via mobile devices, maintaining uninterrupted operations with multi-pump redundancy.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Taiwan Province of China

• Availability: India, Oceania, Southeast Asia

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: chemical-free seawater desalination

IDE

Source: Getty Images/tifonimages

IDE PROGREEN™ is an innovative, chemical-free seawater desalination technology that uses IDE’s patented Direct Osmosis Cleaning (DOC) technology and natural pre-treatment to produce high-quality water for municipalities, resorts and industries. Instead of traditional chemicals, the pre-treatment process relies on natural bio-flocculation, where certain bacteria and algae release a sticky substance called EPS. This EPS acts as a natural glue, binding fine suspended solids in seawater, which are then efficiently removed through media filtration (MF). The DOC system uses the natural principle of direct osmosis to keep membranes constantly clean. Therefore, it enhances membrane performance and extends their lifespan, and reduces long-term energy consumption.

• Contracting type: For sale/service

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Israel

• Availability: Worldwide

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: energy recovery device for reverse osmosis desalination plants

DMW Corporation

Source: DMW Corporation

DeROs® is an eco-friendly, isobaric energy recovery device designed for seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) plants. It features high-efficiency, low pulsation, minimal noise and a low mixing rate. With a wide and adjustable flow range, it can adapt to varying freshwater demands. The device operates using multiple cylinders arranged in parallel, where low-pressure seawater and high-pressure brine are alternately fed into the system. When high-pressure brine is discharged from the RO membrane unit, it pressurizes the low-pressure seawater inside the device while simultaneously receiving freshwater and expelling low-pressure brine after energy recovery. This fluid-to-fluid energy transfer system enables DeROs® to achieve an energy recovery efficiency of up to 98%, cutting power use by 50%. Freshwater production can continue even when some RO units are being cleaned.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Japan

• Availability: Worldwide

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: ceramic flat-sheet membranes for bioreactor systems

Meidensha Corporation

Source: Meidensha Corporation

Meidensha has developed a durable ceramic flat-sheet membrane for water treatment systems. This technology is particularly effective for treating water and wastewater containing oil, solvents and inorganic substances, including hard solids. The membrane offers high chemical and thermal resistance, reducing the need for frequent maintenance, and allowing for long-term filtration performance and easier cleaning. The system’s sheet-form arrangement and air dispersal method enhance air scrubbing efficiency, reducing overall energy consumption and lowering operational costs. The ceramic flat-sheet membrane has been applied in water, industrial wastewater and public sewage treatment plants.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: Medium

• Place of origin: Japan

• Availability: Asia

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water/energy efficiency: AI for pipeline infrastructure inspection

Fluid Analytics Inc.

Source: Getty Images/coffeekai

This AI-driven platform empowers cities to monitor water and wastewater systems effectively, ensuring infrastructure health, waterway quality and early detection of waterborne diseases on a large scale. A fleet of robots navigate the underground equipped with sensors to scan pipe networks, collect data and gather water samples. The AI analyses the real-time data and water sample, identifying points where untreated wastewater enters the environment and locating sewage discharge sources. This information helps cities divert wastewater for proper treatment and reuse, preventing pollution and protecting drinking water supplies. By leveraging proprietary global datasets, advanced mathematical models and machine learning, the platform has monitored over 1.5 billion liters of urban wastewater spills and enabled the treatment and reuse of over 800 million liters daily.

• Contracting type: For service

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: India

• Availability: Asia, North America, South America

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: microbial fuel cell for wastewater treatment

Watasumi

Source: Watasumi

Building on microbial fuel cell technology developed at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, the KAPPA is a modular wastewater treatment system capable of generating its own electricity. The system is designed for on-site wastewater treatment at small and medium-sized food and beverage companies, with a single unit capable of processing between 50 and 100 L/day depending on wastewater characteristics. It works with anaerobic bacteria and patented internal electrodes, which work to enhance the metabolic process of direct interspecies electron transfer. The bacteria break down and eliminate up to 95% of the organic content of the wastewater while harvesting and releasing electrons. Other bacteria partially use these to generate biogas, but the remainder make up harvestable electricity. This way, the system converts up to 80% of the energy in the wastewater into electricity, leaving maximally 5% sludge behind.

• Contracting type: For sale

• Technology maturity: Frontier

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Japan

• Availability: India, Japan

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Horizon technologies

Water treatment: solar water desalination and e-mobility delivery systems for crisis areas

Beam Global

Source: Beam Global

The BeamWell™ system provides clean water, electricity and transport solutions for areas in crisis, such as war zones and disaster sites where only salt, brackish or dirty water is available because a reliable clean water supply is not available or has been interrupted. Built on the EV ARC™ technology, BeamWell™ is a self-sustained, mobile unit that uses solar technology to purify seawater into drinking water, stores it in a 3,000-liter tank replenished daily, and generates solar power for vital devices, such as medical, communication, cooking and lighting. It charges four integrated electric mopeds to distribute essential supplies like food, water and medicines. Designed for quick setup, it fits in a shipping container, requires no construction or extra infrastructure, and can be easily moved as water needs change. Beam Global aims to deploy BeamWell™ systems in the Middle East and Gaza, where many residents face severe water shortages, through global aid partnerships.

• Contracting type: For collaboration

• Technology maturity: Horizon

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: United States of America

• Availability: Europe, Middle East

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: energy-saving membrane bioreactor

Mitsubishi

Source: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

The Ozone Backwashing Energy-Saving Membrane Bioreactor (EcoMBR) represents an innovative approach to low-energy wastewater treatment and water recycling. It can achieve a high flux rate of 1.6 m³/m²/day – more than twice that of conventional membrane bioreactors (MBRs). This technology employs regular backwashing with highly concentrated ozonated water to effectively remove organic foulants, enhancing membrane permeability. Additionally, the EcoMBR reduces energy consumption by utilizing a lower air flow rate from the blower, which cleans the membrane surfaces with bubbles, thus minimizing the required number of membranes and allowing for a smaller plant footprint.

• Contracting type: N/A

• Technology maturity: Horizon

• Technology level: Medium

• Place of origin: Japan

• Availability: N/A

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Water treatment: state-of-the-art I-TECH Packaged STP (Sewage Treatment Plant)

Manila Water Infratech Solutions (MWIS)

Source: Manila Water Infratech Solutions (MWIS)

Manila Water Infratech Solutions (MWIS), a subsidiary of Manila Water, is currently piloting the I-TECH Packaged Sewage Treatment Plant, a new technology for efficient wastewater treatment in small to medium settings. This compact system incorporates advanced membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology, which filters contaminants, including nitrates and phosphates, to meet stringent water quality standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The treated wastewater is also suitable for water reuse, helping reduce environmental impact and improving sustainability. With a daily processing capacity of 10 cubic meters, this can accommodate wastewater requirements for small to medium-sized communities, industrial facilities or remote locations. Since it is compact, it requires low maintenance and only allows easy plug-and-play installation especially designed for confined spaces.

• Contracting type: For service

• Technology maturity: Horizon

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Philippines

• Availability: Philippines

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database

Energy efficiency: efficient biogas purification in wastewater treatment plants

Asahi Kasei

Source: Asahi Kasei

Besides methane, biogas derived from sewage sludge consists of around 40% CO2 and around 60% methane. CO₂ gas is removed in Asahi Kasei’s system (the System), generating high-purity methane gas for energy applications, and CO₂-rich excess gas. The System separates CO₂ and methane from biogas using the optimal combination of a special zeolite as adsorbent that selectively adsorbs CO₂ and a special pressure vacuum swing adsorption (PVSA) process technology. The System has the potential capability to produce high-purity methane of gas-grid-injection specifications with high recovery rates and lower costs. It is, as of 2025, being trialed at the Kojima Sewage Treatment Plant in Kurashiki City, Japan, and would be carbon negative if combined with carbon capture and utilization or storage technology, according to Asahi Kasei. Commercialization is expected around the year 2027.

• Contracting type: N/A

• Technology maturity: Horizon

• Technology level: High

• Place of origin: Japan

• Availability: Japan

• Contact: WIPO GREEN Database