Technology And Partnerships Can Futureproof Water Supplies

Leakage technology will continue to evolve, but the real step-change comes from better use of supply chain expertise, writes Ben Crabtree, product line director, Ovarro, ahead of the Annual Leakage Conference, Birmingham, UK, on 24-25 November 2025.

Reducing leakage remains one of the most powerful tools water companies can deploy to protect supplies, strengthen resilience and build public trust. With the Independent Water Commission (IWC) reporting that 19% of England’s supply is still lost from pipes each year – and that progress has slowed since 2000 – maintaining focus on cutting leakage is critical.

The IWC’s final report, published in July 2025, acknowledged that while significant progress has been made since privatisation, further innovation is essential. The report notes the sector is becoming more open, with utilities increasingly willing to exchange information, learning and research – a culture of collaboration that must also extend to the supply chain.

Ovarro’s latest leakage solutions have been co-developed with water company partners, from initial scoping and design, through to field trials and feedback-driven enhancements. Working in this way – as Ovarro has done for more than four decades – gives engineers access to live network conditions, operational challenges and customer priorities. This feedback loop ensures solutions are designed to meet real-world needs, not just theoretical ones.

As part of this drive, Ovarro has introduced Enigma5, a next-generation fixed network correlator, and Mikron5, a wireless ground microphone. Shaped by the real needs of leakage field teams, both build on Ovarro’s proven technology platforms, while future-proofing networks with improved usability and efficiency.

Enigma5 delivers high-resolution data over longer ranges, with a user-replaceable battery that keeps devices in the field and avoids time-consuming repairs. Mikron5 streamlines the final stage of leak detection, allowing technicians to transmit data wirelessly into Ovarro’s analytics platform for accurate confirmation.

When integrated with Ovarro’s software and managed services – such as LeakNavigator and the just-launched LeakCommander – these solutions allow utilities to plan deployments more efficiently, review district metered areas (DMAs) more quickly and accelerate the reduction of non-revenue water.

Importantly, the managed service approach lets utilities draw on the expertise of the supply chain, freeing operational teams to focus on fixing and preventing leaks. With resource scarcity and drought risk rising, leakage reduction is a proven, scalable solution, with technology that is rapidly advancing in line with sector needs.

The required shift is now in the adoption, speed and a willingness to work differently. By investing in advanced leak detection while better leveraging supply chain expertise, water companies can be confident of achieving the required end-results for customers, regulators and the environment.

Ovarro will be showcasing its latest technology and managed services at the Annual Leakage Conference, Birmingham, UK, on 24-25 November 2025.

About Ovarro
Ovarro is a global technology company that works with customers across water, energy oil & gas, broadcast and transportation, providing end-to-end solutions to help monitor, control and manage their assets. Our connected technology is always there, always on. Secure, proven, trusted; integrating seamlessly with our clients’ assets. Collecting and communicating data from some of the most remote locations and harshest environments on the planet. Enabling businesses to work smarter and more effectively.