Water utilities & AI: how utilities can thrive in the new generative AI reality

No matter where your water utility is on its digital transformation journey, generative AI (gen AI) may be a supercharger when it comes to developing digital capabilities faster. Some utilities are reluctant to adopt generative AI tools like ChatGPT, however, out of fear and an abundance of caution. But other water utilities recognize its transformational potential, and they’re finding ways to carefully explore its value in all corners of their organization. 

DC Water is a prime example. The utility is embracing generative AI with a clear plan, assessing the pros and cons of the new technology and formulating business cases backed by practical, employee-driven insight and experimentation. 

This paper dives into DC Water’s journey to generative AI with Robert Bornhofen, Director of Innovation, with the hope that it can help inspire conservative, risk-averse utilities to carefully work through generative AI concerns and start leveraging it, even in small, measured ways, for substantial productivity and efficiency gains. 

We end with a discussion of generative AI risks and our experts offer key considerations for mitigation, including questions to ask of generative AI software developers if you’re considering adopting generative AI tools in your organization.

Read the whitepaper now

Expert contributors

Gigi Karmous-Edwards
Water Sector Digital Twin Expert & Consultant
at Karmous Edwards Consulting LLC

Dr. Saša Tomić
Digital Water Lead at Burns & McDonnell

Dr. Robert Bornhofen
Director of Innovation at DC Water