Conserving water in Johannesburg through AI-powered leak reduction

Water is one of Johannesburg’s most precious resources. Yet ageing infrastructure, persistent leaks, and water losses place increasing pressure on a city already facing water scarcity. Estimates suggest that South Africa loses more than 40% of treated water through leaks and wastage, amounting to more than 1.5 billion cubic metres each year. In Johannesburg alone, annual losses are estimated at more than 250 million cubic metres.

To help address this challenge, GWF AG, a global water technology company with more than 125 years of experience, is working with Johannesburg Water on an innovative project that uses AI to reduce water losses in the city’s distribution network. Microsoft South Africa is supporting the initiative in communities located near the Johannesburg datacentre region. The project demonstrates how technology, local expertise, and collaboration can help communities make better use of scarce resources while building resilience for the future.

Using AI to tackle a critical community challenge

The project is focused initially on three district metered areas within Johannesburg’s water network. Using advanced data analytics and AI, the solution continuously assesses leakage conditions and identifies optimal pressure settings for different parts of the network.

By carefully managing pressure, water utilities can reduce the strain placed on ageing pipes and infrastructure. Lower pressure means fewer new leaks, reduced water loss, and more reliable water delivery to homes, schools, businesses, and public services.

GWF AG brings extensive global experience to the project, having implemented similar approaches in locations including the United Kingdom and the United States. Working alongside Johannesburg Water, the organisation is adapting those lessons to meet the unique needs of South Africa’s largest city.

The initiative was prioritised because of the urgent need to conserve water in one of the world’s most water-stressed urban environments. By combining AI-driven insights with operational expertise, the project aims to reduce leaks by approximately 35%, helping the city retain more of the water it already treats and distributes. The project reflects a community-centred approach that focuses on improving existing infrastructure and maximising the value of existing water resources.

The project also highlights the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. Water scarcity is a complex challenge that no single organisation can solve alone. Bringing together local utility expertise, advanced technology, scientific advisory support, and committed funding creates an opportunity to generate meaningful and lasting impact.

“This collaborative effort between GWF and Microsoft represents a step towards addressing water scarcity challenges in major cities, particularly in the Global South,” says James Rees, Strategic Advisor for Water Technology at GWF AG. “This initiative will serve as a scalable model for water conservation in urban areas facing increasing water stress. The collaboration welcomes collective action from other corporations aiming to positively impact water in local communities and cities in high-risk water basins.”

Building a model for South Africa’s future

While the project begins in three district metered areas, its potential reaches far beyond the initial deployment. If successful, the approach could be expanded across additional parts of Johannesburg and eventually to other communities throughout South Africa.

Every litre of water saved through leak reduction is a litre that remains available for households, businesses, public services, and future generations. Improving efficiency within existing infrastructure can often deliver benefits faster and more cost effectively than developing new water sources.

The project also supports broader efforts to strengthen water sustainability in communities where datacentre infrastructure operates. Microsoft South Africa’s funding serves as a catalyst, enabling local partners to test innovative approaches and deliver benefits that extend well beyond the project itself. As the programme develops, lessons learned in Johannesburg may help inform similar water conservation initiatives in other water-stressed regions.

By bringing together AI, water expertise, and strong local partnerships, Johannesburg is working towards conserving one of its most valuable resources. The project demonstrates how collaborative innovation can help communities address pressing environmental challenges while creating a more resilient and sustainable future.