The global water and wastewater automation market is projected to reach $18.2bn by 2033, up from $9.8bn in 2024, according to Growth Market Reports. The sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% between 2025 and 2033, driven by rising demand for efficient water management, stricter regulatory requirements, and increasing adoption of smart technologies across utilities and industry.

As water scarcity intensifies and environmental standards become more stringent, automation has emerged as a critical component within the broader industrial automation landscape. Utilities and industrial operators are under growing pressure to optimise water use, enhance treatment efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance. Technologies such as sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and advanced analytics platforms are playing an increasingly transformative role in modern water and wastewater management.

A major factor underpinning market expansion is the global water crisis. Population growth, urbanisation, and industrial activity continue to place significant strain on water resources, driving the need for more efficient monitoring and management systems. Automation enables real-time oversight of water usage, helping to reduce waste and support conservation efforts.

At the same time, governments worldwide are introducing more stringent environmental regulations to safeguard water quality and promote sustainability. Meeting these requirements demands continuous monitoring and precise process control — capabilities that automation systems are well equipped to deliver.

Technological advancements are also accelerating adoption. The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing is reshaping the sector. Smart sensors, SCADA systems, and predictive analytics now enable real-time monitoring, early fault detection, and predictive maintenance, significantly improving operational performance.

Rapid urbanisation and industrial growth — particularly in emerging economies — are further increasing demand for advanced water and wastewater solutions, where automation is essential to manage complexity at scale.

The rise of smart cities is creating new opportunities for automated water networks. By leveraging data analytics and connected infrastructure, these systems can optimise distribution, detect leaks, and improve overall efficiency.

In parallel, growing emphasis on sustainability is driving interest in wastewater recycling and reuse. Automation plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of these processes.

Cloud-based platforms are also gaining traction, offering centralised monitoring and control across multiple sites. Their scalability and cost-effectiveness make them an attractive option for both utilities and industrial operators.

The outlook for the water and wastewater automation market remains strong, supported by continued investment in infrastructure and ongoing digital transformation. As the sector shifts towards smarter, more integrated systems, automation is set to become a core element of water management strategies.

With governments and industries placing greater emphasis on sustainability and resilience, demand for advanced automation solutions is expected to grow steadily. The continued integration of AI, IoT, and cloud technologies will further drive innovation, helping to address global water challenges while improving efficiency and environmental performance.