How GenAI Is Supercharging Digital Transformation For Rural Water Utilities Across The United States

Generative AI is making waves in the U.S. water sector — not as a passing trend, but as a powerful tool for reshaping operations, preserving institutional knowledge, and bridging digital divides across utilities of all sizes. Launched in the wake of ChatGPT’s debut, a national research collaboration spearheaded by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), alongside the Water Environment Federation (WEF), The Water Research Foundation (WRF), and Karmous Edwards Consulting (KEC), is leading the charge. With participation from more than 20 utilities — and input from international partners — the initiative is exploring how GenAI can tackle some of the sector’s most pressing challenges, from aging infrastructure to public engagement.

The work is grounded in real-world experimentation. From small towns digitizing handwritten logs to larger systems creating expert chatbots or analyzing invoices for supply chain insights, utilities are documenting use cases, sharing data, and collaborating through the G3 Utility Group. These pilots are not just one-offs — they’re forming a practical blueprint for broader adoption.

By promoting secure experimentation and developing best practices, this first-of-its-kind initiative aims to accelerate GenAI’s responsible use in the sector. The goal isn’t just to automate — it’s to enhance operations, retain critical knowledge, and set a foundation for future innovation.