Schneider Electric Published Water Security Report
New research highlights infrastructure and cyber risks facing businesses in the UK and Europe.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Cybersecurity
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Schneider Electric released The Water Crunch Report on 13 October 2026, outlining growing concerns over water availability and infrastructure resilience. The findings indicate that cyber threats and ageing systems present significant barriers to business operations across the UK and Europe.
Why it matters
As water scarcity and system connectivity increase, the security of critical utility networks has become a top priority for business continuity. Ageing infrastructure remains a vulnerable point for companies seeking to maintain stable operations in the face of evolving external threats.
Currently, 70% of business leaders utilize smart meters for monitoring, while 73% have implemented automated controls for valves and pumps. Additionally, 63% of businesses have integrated water management platforms like SCADA, and 25% have deployed digital twin technology.
The players
Schneider Electric
This multinational company specializes in energy management and automation solutions for various global industries.
The details
The research conducted in June 2026 shows that 57% of UK business leaders see ageing infrastructure as a primary barrier, compared to 36% in Europe. Furthermore, 33% of UK leaders project that water availability will become a serious operational barrier within the next five years.
Timeline
June 2026: Researchers conducted the study on water security.
13 October 2026: The Water Crunch Report was officially published.
Next five years: Business leaders expect water availability to become a serious operational barrier.
The Tech Race
The report reflects the ongoing shift toward digitizing critical infrastructure by adopting advanced management systems. This transition creates a technical arms race as companies seek to modernize operations while defending against threats that specifically target these interconnected digital environments.
Businesses may face increased pressure to update internal water monitoring systems, which could lead to shifts in operating budgets and maintenance schedules. Users and stakeholders should anticipate more rigorous security protocols for utility-linked digital management platforms.
The takeaway
Companies should prioritize the security of their automated water systems as a core component of overall business continuity. Investing in real-time monitoring and modernizing ageing assets is essential to mitigating the growing risks identified by industry leaders.
Further reading
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