Stantec AI wastewater operations project will explore how artificial intelligence can support real-time decision-making and improve treatment performance across utility operations.
Stantec has been selected to lead a new initiative funded by the Water Research Foundation (WRF), in collaboration with WSSC Water and Prince William Water.
The 31-month project is supported through WRF’s Tailored Collaboration Program and will focus on applying AI technologies to address operational challenges in wastewater treatment facilities.
Stantec AI wastewater operations project targets real-time optimisation
The Stantec AI wastewater operations project aims to translate complex treatment data into actionable insights for plant operators. By integrating engineering expertise with advanced AI systems, the initiative will support improved process stability, operator decision-making and system performance.
Stantec will incorporate artificial intelligence capabilities from EAOS, a specialist in wastewater-focused AI, to develop tools that enable real-time operational guidance.
Unlike theoretical AI applications, the project is designed around real-world utility needs, including workforce challenges, knowledge retention and the increasing complexity of treatment systems.
Introducing intelligent assets for wastewater facilities
A key innovation within the project is the development of “Intelligent Assets”—embedded digital tools that convert engineering knowledge into operational recommendations.
These tools are designed to be implemented incrementally, allowing utilities to modernise infrastructure without requiring large-scale system replacements. Utilities will retain ownership of their data while benefiting from enhanced digital capabilities.
Testing and implementation will take place at WSSC Water’s Piscataway Water Resource Recovery Facility and Prince William Water’s H.L. Mooney Advanced Water Reclamation Facility, both of which are undergoing upgrades suitable for integrating digital technologies.
Collaborative model links research to utility needs
The Tailored Collaboration Program enables utilities to co-develop research projects aligned with operational priorities, with WRF providing matched funding. This ensures that emerging technologies are grounded in practical application rather than theoretical development.
The project will also involve observer utilities from across the United States, supporting knowledge sharing and broader adoption of outcomes.
Pusker Regmi, Vice President at Stantec, said the initiative focuses on practical innovation that operators can trust to manage increasingly complex facilities.
Supporting wider adoption of AI in water utilities
Final deliverables from the project will include a detailed research report and a Utility AI Implementation Playbook. These resources will provide guidance on deployment strategies, return on investment and case studies to support adoption across utilities of different sizes.
As water utilities face growing pressure from ageing infrastructure, regulatory requirements and workforce challenges, AI-driven tools are increasingly seen as a way to improve efficiency and resilience.
For more on digital innovation in water, visit our Water Treatment coverage.
