Harnessing AI for Sustainable Water Management in Malta
As Malta faces increasing challenges in water resource management due to growing populations, thriving tourism, and climate change, the Energy and Water Agency (EWA) and the Water Services Corporation (WSC) are turning to artificial intelligence to tackle these pressing issues. Partnering with NOAH Global Solutions, a US-based company specializing in advanced technology for water utilities, Malta is testing AI models that offer a promising solution to its water scarcity problems.
The AI system developed by NOAH Global Solutions continuously monitors critical data such as water usage, groundwater levels, and weather patterns. This data is fed into sophisticated algorithms that forecast future water demands and potential issues like saltwater intrusion into groundwater supplies. By predicting water needs and optimizing resource allocation, AI acts as an intelligent water manager, making real-time adjustments to ensure the most efficient use of available resources.
Malta’s unique geographical and climatic conditions, including the absence of rivers and lakes and reliance on limited rainfall, make effective water management particularly challenging. The AI model provides a strategic advantage by determining the optimal mix of water sources, such as desalinated water, groundwater, and recycled water, to meet current and future demands while reducing costs and environmental impact.
EWA CEO Manuel Sapiano emphasized the importance of this project as part of the agency’s broader technical and academic collaborations with international experts. “The changes due to climate change mean we will face an increasingly difficult situation in water management,” Sapiano noted. “These issues make Malta one of the most challenging countries to ensure a reliable supply of water.”
The AI-driven approach also offers the potential to predict water needs before traditional methods can, allowing authorities to proactively adjust water extraction rates from different sources. This capability is crucial for ensuring a reliable supply during droughts and other adverse conditions.
Malta’s heavy reliance on desalination—a costly and complex process—further underscores the need for innovative solutions in water management. Excessive groundwater extraction over the years has also led to saltwater intrusion, contaminating valuable freshwater reserves. With a growing population, vibrant tourism industry, and increasing industrial activities, the demand for water continues to rise, exacerbating the strain on limited resources.
Furthermore, climate change is projected to worsen the situation, with rising temperatures leading to increased evaporation rates and decreased rainfall. Rising sea levels also pose a significant threat to groundwater resources, potentially worsening saltwater intrusion issues.
By deploying AI in water management, Malta is taking a significant step towards sustainable solutions that can adapt to changing conditions and ensure a reliable water supply for future generations.
