Spain has launched an ambitious programme to modernise water management through the PERTE for the Digitalisation of the Water Cycle (Water PERTE). This national initiative aims to accelerate the digital transformation of the water sector while strengthening institutional capacity and coordination across national, regional and local levels.
Based on a combination of public and private funding, including NextGenerationEU resources, the Water PERTE promotes the deployment of digital technologies such as smart sensors, artificial intelligence, predictive models and digital twins. Beyond technological innovation, the programme places strong emphasis on organisational change, skills development and territorial cohesion, particularly for small municipalities and rural areas.
Spain’s experience provides valuable insights for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially in terms of designing integrated public policies, performance-based incentive mechanisms and addressing challenges related to institutional capacity, data integration and resistance to change. In this context, the Water PERTE stands out as a relevant case study for countries seeking to enhance water efficiency and strengthen climate resilience through digital transformation.
