Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield’s Senior Research Director Greg Goodwin to explore the upcoming Supreme Court case: City and County of San Francisco v. Environmental Protection Agency. The outcome of this case could reshape the balance of regulatory authority between federal and state governments, with major implications for water quality standards across the U.S. The case centers on San Francisco’s challenge to the EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act, particularly its use of vague discharge rules that lack clear numerical limits. San Francisco argues that the EPA’s reliance on generic prohibitions without quantifiable limits makes compliance difficult and could result in up to US$10 billion in additional capital expenditures. On the other side, thirteen Attorneys General for Democratically governed states are urging the Court to preserve the EPA’s authority to set “narrative” limits, supported by scientists who claim that narrative-based limitations can be more effective in certain cases, such as nutrient discharges, by allowing more flexibility for the permit holder. Reese and Greg dive into six key questions: What is the significance of the upcoming Supreme Court hearing on the EPA and water regulations? How does the case challenge the Clean Water Act? What are the potential legal implications for cities and industries if the Supreme Court limits the EPA's regulatory power? How does this Supreme Court case tie into broader regulatory shifts in the water sector, especially with the 2024 elections on the horizon? What impact could a decision in favor of San Francisco have on national water policies? How this case connects to broader concerns in the water industry, such as PFAS and lead service line replacement? If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: U.K. Water Utilities’ Road to AMP8: Proposed Business Plans and Regulator’s Review 2024 U.S. Elections: Implications for the Water Industry

In this episode, Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield's Senior Research Director Eric Bindler to break down the essential role of Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) in guiding water utility infrastructure investments. As part of an annual Bluefield tradition, our analysis of nearly 800 CIPs across the U.S. and Canada reveals insights into how water utilities are planning US$345 billion in capital investments through 2032. Eric answers seven key questions, covering everything from the basics of what CIPs are to why they are crucial for utilities. The discussion also highlights: Why CIPs Matter: These plans provide a structured approach for long-term infrastructure projects, ensuring utilities can prioritize spending and address public health, regulatory compliance, and climate resilience. How Bluefield Does It: Eric explains Bluefield’s research methodology, which involves analyzing thousands of line-item data across water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities, capturing nearly 45,000 individual projects categorized into 48 distinct categories. Investment Insights: The US$345 billion includes a mix of critical projects—46% for water, 44% for wastewater, and 9% for stormwater infrastructure. Notable project types include pipe networks, water treatment plants, cybersecurity, and PFAS mitigation. These CIPs translate utility capital needs into market opportunities for technology and equipment vendors as well as engineers and construction firms. Bluefield has detailed CIP data to help clients navigate market opportunities and make informed decisions. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: U.S. & Canada Municipal Utility Capital Improvement Plans: Water, Wastewater, & Stormwater Budget Outlook, 2024–2032

In this episode, host Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield Research's Senior Analyst, Ethan Edwards, for a deep dive into the recent US$2 billion acquisition of USALCO by private equity firm TJC—the biggest deal in the water sector this year so far. USALCO, a key player in the water and wastewater treatment chemicals market, was acquired from H.I.G. Capital, which retained a minority stake. Reese and Ethan explore the strategic importance of this deal and what it signals for the water sector moving forward. Questions addressed in this conversation: What are the basics of TJC's acquisition of USALCO and its significance in the broader water treatment chemicals market? How has USALCO's acquisitive strategy transformed the company's footprint in the U.S., particularly in the water and wastewater treatment sectors? What role has private equity played in consolidating the water treatment chemicals market, and why is this consolidation happening at such a rapid pace? How are water treatment chemical producers managing high cost pressures, and what are the broader implications for the industry's profitability? Looking ahead, Bluefield's water experts discuss what’s on the horizon for the water treatment chemicals market, including the potential for more M&A activity, IPOs like Solenis’ planned for 2025, and the impact of persistently high interest rates on deal flow. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: USALCO Deal Points to Private Equity’s Role in Consolidation of Water Treatment Chemicals Water for Chemicals: Market Trends and Forecasts, 2023–2030 Private Equity Takes Wheel of H2O Innovation

The U.K.'s water sector is facing a critical juncture in preparation for the upcoming AMP8 investment cycle. This cycle sets the financial agenda for the world's most privatized water market, with a proposed £104.6 billion investment. Episode 101 features host Reese Tisdale with Bluefield Senior Research Director Chloé Meyer. In this episode, they discuss the transformative potential of AMP8, which aims to tackle aging infrastructure, enhance environmental protections, and secure a sustainable water supply. Reese and Chloé explore key challenges, opportunities, and regulatory pressures that will shape the next five years of the U.K.'s water industry. Drawing from Bluefield's latest report, "U.K. Water Utilities' Road to AMP8", the discussion includes analysis of proposed business plans by U.K. water utilities. Topics covered include: Market Overview: Understanding the current state of the U.K. water sector and its global significance. Privatization Dynamics: How privatization has shaped the water sector and what changes AMP8 might bring. Ofwat's Role and Influence: The regulatory power of Ofwat and its impact on investment and operational strategies. Financial Health and Risk: Assessing the financial stability of water utilities amidst unprecedented investment demands. Environmental and Technological Shifts: How the water industry is responding to environmental challenges and adopting new technologies. Leakage Reduction Strategies: New approaches to tackle one of the sector's most pressing issues. Brexit Impacts: The implications of Brexit on regulatory frameworks and investment in the water sector. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: U.K. Water Utilities’ Road to AMP8: Proposed Business Plans and Regulator’s Review Europe Municipal Water: Key Trends, Policy Activity, and Market Outlook, Q2 2024

Four years after the launch of The Future of Water podcast, milestone episode #100 has arrived! In this episode, podcast host Reese Tisdale is joined by VP & Managing Director Keith Hays as they reflect on the evolution of the water sector and look ahead to its future. Reese and Keith begin by reflecting on the most impactful events and trends over the past four years, such as the toilet paper shortage and fatbergs, the rise in demand for data centers, and the Thames Water financial crisis. The second half of the episode explores what's on the horizon for the water industry. Key topics include, but are not limited to: Impact of AI and Machine Learning: How these technologies are enhancing mineral exploration by analyzing vast datasets, crucial for meeting rising demand for critical minerals. Impending Day Zeros: As Day Zero events are expected to increase, the need for effective water conservation strategies is increasing, especially in regions facing severe water stress and high leakage rates. Role of Big Tech: The impact of big tech companies in driving digital transformation with smart technologies and real-time monitoring, improving efficiency and addressing water sector data needs. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Water for Data Centers: Market Trends and Forecasts, 2023–2030 AI in the Utility Construction Industry: Key Market Trends, Applications, and Best Practices Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA): Tracking the Spending, Q1 2024

With the 2024 U.S. presidential election on the horizon and U.S. President Joe Biden announcing his exit from the race, the political landscape is heating up. In this episode of The Future of Water, Podcast Host Reese Tisdale speaks with Senior Research Director Greg Goodwin, diving into Bluefield's new white paper, "2024 U.S. Elections: Implications for the Water Industry". At the time of recording this episode, Joe Biden was still the Democratic candidate for president. However, over the weekend, the political landscape shifted. Biden's sudden withdrawal from re-election certainly shakes things up, but for the water and wastewater sectors, a Democratic victory in the White House is expected to maintain the current course at the federal level. While many anticipate Vice President Kamala Harris to step up as the new candidate, the political outlook, as discussed with Greg, remains largely unchanged. The real game-changer, however, looms in a potential Trump win—promising a seismic shift that could echo the transformative policies proposed during his previous term. Reese and Greg unpack how decisions made in the upcoming election can reshape water management in the U.S., addressing critical issues such as aging infrastructure, climate resilience, and water quality. Greg tackles three crucial questions: How will the outcome of the 2024 elections influence regulatory policies in the water sector? What major water-related initiatives are on-the-line in this election? How shifts in economic policies may impact the water industry? If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: 2024 U.S. Elections: Implications for the Water Industry Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA): Tracking the Spending, Q1 2024 State of the Market: PFAS Policy Landscape, Forecasts, and Competitive Analysis

Bluefield water experts recently presented a private water client webcast in collaboration with the National Association of Water Companies, From PFAS to Consolidation: Key Water Market Developments Impacting Utility Strategies. In this special mailbag episode, podcast host Reese Tisdale and Senior Analyst Charlie Suse answer industry questions received from this webcast, providing in-depth insights into key water market developments. Topics covered, questions answered: How does Bluefield define the range (very small–very large) for water utility system sizes, especially when evaluating the relationship between system size and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations? When the health-based violation data is normalized against the number of community water systems, what does that data show? What is a realistic annual cost estimate for PFAS maximum contaminant level compliance, given that the EPA's US$1.5 billion per year estimate seems low? How much are Public Utility Commissions willing to provide rate relief for consolidators purchasing small, troubled systems? How is workforce development and the fast approaching retirement wave affecting the water industry? How has the role of private equity played out in the regulated/non-regulated water utility segments? How has the non-regulated market grown in the last decade, and what is its future trajectory? What are the opportunities in private water outside the U.S.? Why is wastewater seen as less risky and more attractive for market entry? Beyond the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, what is the outlook for future federal incentives in the water sector? If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: From PFAS to Consolidation, Key Water Market Developments Impacting Utility Strategies Opportunities in the U.S. Private Water Market Investor-Owned Utilities in Water: Market Share and Company Rankings

Interest in the stormwater management market is on the rise, driven by urgent environmental challenges and infrastructure needs. Reese Tisdale is joined by Senior Research Director Eric Bindler to unpack Bluefield's latest stormwater infrastructure report. In this discussion, they dive into the nuances of stormwater management, exploring its impact across municipal water systems, transportation networks, and real estate development. In this episode: Market Drivers: Explore the significant factors propelling the stormwater management surge—climate change implications, stormwater pollution concerns, and the ongoing construction boom. Key Questions Addressed: Funding Disparities: Understand why stormwater management has historically received less funding compared to drinking water and wastewater sectors. Market Growth Projections: Gain insights into the expected expansion of the U.S. stormwater infrastructure market by 2030. Regional Insights: Discover intriguing trends and developments at the state and regional levels shaping stormwater management strategies. Solutions in Focus: Learn about the diverse range of solutions—from traditional infrastructure to innovative green technologies—being deployed to tackle stormwater challenges. Competitive Landscape: Identify the leading companies and emerging players driving innovation and competition in the stormwater management sector. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: U.S. Stormwater Infrastructure Market: Key Drivers, Competitive Shifts & Investment Outlook, 2024–2030

Podcast host Reese Tisdale talks with Bluefield Analyst Amber Walsh to get the low down on top takeaways from Q2 industrial water analysis. Industrial water markets are seeing a lot of change—from rising demand for data, the energy transition, and a focus on corporate sustainability strategies. In this discussion, Bluefield's water experts share their insights on three hot industries making waves in industrial water management + corporate sustainability, highlighting key water events and trends impacting they way in which companies respond to and address water management challenges and opportunities. Discussed in the podcast: 1. Bluefield keeps a close eye on government funding in the semiconductor manufacturing industry because of all the capital going towards Greenfield development—and with that comes water management spend and innovative solutions (i.e., reuse) especially in areas of water stress. In Q1, there were questions around the status of government funds from the U.S. CHIPS Act and market challenges. Q2 analysis shows the slow roll out of funds to semiconductor manufacturers GlobalFoundries, TSMC, Micron, Intel, and Samsung. What is the status of the funds and how are these companies responding? 2. In the hydrogen space, although still in early development, we are seeing significant investment being poured into green hydrogen. As Bluefield follows the money, we are expecting this to drive water management opportunities. As water is a key input in hydrogen production—and nearly 2,000 projects have been announced worldwide—Bluefield is estimating US$26.3 billion to be spent on water management in this sector through 2030.  3. Bluefield is tracking several trends in the food & beverage industry. Wastewater treatment remains a large area of spend for these facilities, increasingly stringent discharge regulations are pushing for advanced treatment. What is the impact of municipal surcharges for treatment that can range from a couple thousand dollars annually to millions? And how are companies dealing with higher operational costs and commodity prices? 4. Let's not forget about corporate sustainability. What is the reality of corporate sustainability in industrial water? Is it a driving factor in corporate water management decisions? Companies have largely been motivated to set water reduction targets and disclose water use. But what does this mean and is the goal actually meaningful? How do 'replenishment projects' work and what are attractive 'sustainable’ business models (i.e., Water-as-a-service, operation management contracts). If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis The Hydrogen Economy: Water Demands, Management Strategies, and Global Forecasts, 2024–2030 Water for Food & Beverage: Market Trends and Forecasts, 2024–2030 Water for Semiconductors: Market Trends and Forecasts, 2023–2030 Corporate Sustainability: Water Management Targets and Goals

Spain’s water sector has evolved in light of the country's unique challenges such as extensive infrastructure buildout in recent decades, population boom, economic recessions, and persistent droughts. Despite these hurdles, Spain has made notable strides in areas including desalination, water management, and technology adoption. VP & Managing Director Keith Hays and Analyst Maria Cardenal from Bluefield's Europe team sit down with Podcast Host and Bluefield President & CEO Reese Tisdale. Together, they explore three major trends shaping the Spanish water sector: digitalization, smart water management, and the circular economy. In addition to these trends, Bluefield's Europe water experts delve into several key topics: Main challenges facing Spain's water sector, and how they are being addressed The size of Spain’s water sector, including its relativity to other countries in Europe Government policies and regulations that could influence the development of the water sector moving forward Prominent key players in the Spanish water sector—utilities, technology providers, and consulting firms Opportunities for foreign investors and companies looking to enter the Spanish water market If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Spain Municipal Water Market Overview Europe Municipal Water & Wastewater: CAPEX Market Forecasts, 2024–2030

Schneider Electric and Bentley have confirmed ongoing discussions regarding a potential acquisition, marking a significant development in the water industry. With Bentley's market value estimated at approximately US$16 billion, the prospective deal would provide large ramifications across various industries where both companies operate. While both Schneider and Bentley are prominent players in the digital water realm, other companies including Cadence Design Systems and Siemens could be in the mix as well. In this episode, podcast host Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield's Senior Research Director Eric Bindler, and Digital Water Analyst Christine Ow, to explore the potential ripple effect of a Schneider-Bentley deal on the water industry: Enhancing Operational Efficiency: The convergence of Bentley and Schneider would facilitate the transition from design to operations, unlocking efficiencies throughout the value chain. Their combined expertise would offer a suite of products, bridging crucial gaps in the industry. Altering the Competitive Landscape: Schneider's diverse portfolio spans various sectors. The integration of Bentley would further strengthen their standing within the water industry, challenging established players. Navigating Integration Challenges: Beyond the strategic benefits, the acquisition presents integration complexities, including aligning customer bases and merging company cultures. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Modeling Software Players Weigh Growth Options Idrica Tapped to Integrate Xylem Digital Water Portfolio Oldcastle Cements Digital Water Strategy via Partnerships and M&A

Bluefield's latest remediation forecast for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has surged to US$13.5 billion by 2030 in the wake of anticipated maximum contamination limits (MCLs) for drinking water and a significant legal settlement involving 3M in South Carolina. Now, with the EPA confirming these unprecedented contaminant limits, a fresh wave of discussions emerge, touching upon the EPA's authority, states' rights, and the subsequent course of action including the management and responsibility of biosolids disposal—who's ultimately responsible? In this episode, Podcast Host Reese Tisdale engages in a deep dive discussion with Bluefield's Senior Research Director, Greg Goodwin (a.k.a. Bluefield's policy watcher), exploring recent policy developments regulating 'forever chemicals' in drinking water and their potential ramifications on regulatory frameworks. Key talking points cover what is PFAS (for anyone not in the know), the implications of the EPA establishing its new MCLs for PFAS, the ripple effects on wastewater, and the potential influence of upcoming elections on these policies. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: State of the Market: PFAS Policy Landscape, Forecasts, and Competitive Analysis 3M Windfall for PFAS Impacted Water Systems Europe to Ramp Up PFAS Water Regulations

While artificial intelligence (AI) has indeed become a prevalent buzzword in many regards, capturing headlines over the past 12 to 18 months, its potential impact remains significant. There are real applications and impacts that are unfolding for AI, including those in the water and wastewater sectors. In the U.S. utility construction sector—which is facing chronic labor shortages amid historic levels of federal infrastructure investment—AI can serve as a powerful tool for increasing productivity, efficiency, and safety on worksites and in back offices alike. In this episode, Reese Tisdale speaks with Bluefield's Senior Research Director Eric Bindler who recently presented on AI to to the National Utility of Contractors Association (NUCA). Eric answers 3 major questions: What is AI and its implications for the construction industry? What is AI's potential impact on jobs? What are the applications and who are some companies active in the AI space? If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: AI in the Utility Construction Industry: Key Market Trends, Applications & Best Practices Digital Water: Key Trends, Project Activity, and Market Outlook, Q1 2024

Public sector water and wastewater project owners, engineering & design firms, and contractors are facing cost overruns, schedule delays, and contractual disputes that are slowing the execution and delivery of critical infrastructure. These factors have prompted the development of new policies and project experiences, accelerating collaborative project delivery approaches. The methods include design-build, progressive design-build, construction manager at-risk approaches, and public-private partnerships. Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield Senior Analyst Charlie Suse to discuss his recent analysis of collaborative delivery and its growing impact on water and wastewater infrastructure buildout in the U.S. Charlie outlines three main factors driving interest and policy changes in collaborative delivery: Legislative momentum Demonstrated activity and a growing portfolio of projects Other factors such as utilities’ financial constraints, aging infrastructure, regulatory pressure, and climate change If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Collaborative Project Delivery: State Policies and Market Trends for Water and Wastewater Infrastructure

A number of Bluefield clients have enquired about the status of IIJA project funds. Each program stands in terms of four funding phases: appropriated, announced, obligated, outlaid. Podcast host Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield Senior Analyst Isabel Kezman to discuss recent analysis of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. In this episode, Bluefield's water experts speak on the pace of project activity and funding timeline from its legislation in November 2021 to now. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act: Tracking the Spending, Q1 2024 IIJA Aims to Reduce Backlog of U.S. Tribal Water, Sewer Infrastructure Needs The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA): Breaking Down the Water Funding

The global private equity (PE) sector has grown thirteenfold since 2000, wielding increasing influence over critical infrastructure sectors. The proliferation of digital technologies across the water industry has opened new growth avenues for select PE investors. Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield Analyst Christine Ow, to discuss her recent research on the role of PE firms in the digital water segment. Our Bluefield water experts once again take a step back and define “Digital Water", and then identify some key market trends, including PE investments, key players, and outlook for the rest of 2024. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Private Equity’s Role in Digital Water: Investor Strategies and Competitive Positioning Mapping the Global Digital Water Vendor Landscape: 2024 Update The Digital Water Revolution: Global Digital Water Market Forecast, 2022-2030

Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield Senior Analyst Charlie Suse to discuss recent research on Investor-Owned Utilities in water. Reese and Charlie spell out Bluefield's definition of "Private Water", followed by a dive into the market outlook, including: Utility M&A trends, what companies are paying for water systems, the influential players in the private water space, and where the market is heading through M&A, geographic shifts, and policy changes. Reese also provides some key takeaways from Bluefield's recently published Europe Municipal Water CAPEX Forecast Report. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: U.S. Private Water: Key Trends, M&A Activity, and Market Outlook, Q1 2024 Third-Party O&M for U.S. Water & Wastewater Utilities Private Equity Takes Wheel of H2O Innovation

The eight Japanese trading companies, also known as “sogo shosha”, are Mitsubishi Corporation, Mitsui Corporation, Hitachi Corporation, Itochu Corporation, Sumitomo Corporation, Marubeni Corporation, Toyota Tsusho, and Sojitz Corporation. Together these firms reported nearly US$600 billion in assets under management in 2023. These companies are global, with positions in key markets geographically, and are a unique group with a number of investments in water. Bluefield President and Podcast Host Reese Tisdale and Bluefield's Senior Analyst Ethan Edwards discuss three major questions surrounding the role of these companies within water: How are Japanese trading houses strategically positioned in the global water market, and what factors contribute to their investments in water-related assets? What role do Japanese trading houses play in driving technological advancements and innovations in water management? What are the notable collaborations between Japanese trading houses and local or international entities in the water sector? "These are massive firms, almost battleships of organizations. They've been at it for so long that they've accumulated a wide network that spans globally. Together, they wield a significant influence across a wide network of industries." --Ethan Edwards, Senior Analyst, Bluefield Research If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Japanese Trading Companies: Portfolio Strategies and Analysis Global Desalination: Market Trends, Ownership Rankings, and Forecast, 2022–2028 COVID-19 Wastewater Analysis Gains Traction

Badger Meter, a leading manufacturer of water metering products, has recently acquired the Telog brand of RTUs (remote telemetry units) and associated monitoring software from Trimble. Podcast host and Bluefield President Reese Tisdale, sits down with Bluefield's Senior Research Director Eric Bindler, to shed some light on the transaction, what this signals to the market, and who and which companies should take notice. Badger Meter has become a poster child for an incumbent water infrastructure/equipment supplier transforming into a leading digital water market player. For Trimble, this move clarifies their position in the market, doubling down on the construction and asset management space in water and related markets. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: The Global Water Metering Landscape: Technology Shifts, Competitive Strategies, and Market Outlook Badger Meter Turns Up Pressure with Syrinix Trimble Builds Digital Water Asset Management Platform with Cityworks Acquisition

In this first episode of 2024, podcast host Reese Tisdale chats with two members of Bluefield's Europe team, Chloé Meyer and Keith Hays, to get their on-the-ground perspectives of key water sector trends in the EU. From water quality to reuse to circular economy, Bluefield's water experts discuss what, if any, the implications are for water management in relation to energy prices and the Ukraine-Russia conflict. This discussion addresses three major questions: What are some of the biggest factors influencing, if not disrupting, the water sector in Europe? What are the key challenges and opportunities in the European water sector that businesses looking to break into the market should be aware of? How can emerging technologies, such as digital water tech and business models, contribute to the growth of businesses in the European water sector? If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Europe Municipal Wastewater Reuse: Business Models and Competitive Strategies The European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) – ESRS E3 Catalonia Activates Multi-Pronged Drought Response

In this episode, Bluefield water experts discuss key themes in industrial water from this past quarter. Podcast Host Reese Tisdale, sits down with Bluefield Senior Analyst Amber Walsh, to discuss their findings. 3 major takeaways below: Sustainability initiatives are of particular interest. Keeping tabs on what companies are doing including partnerships and projects to meet water goals. Opportunities for mobile water treatment are on the rise. As businesses seek to insulate themselves from water-related risks, containerized water treatment systems stand to benefit. PFAS is impacting the industry, and becoming a growing concern for industrial facilities on who’s going to be liable. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.  If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: Industrial Water: Key Trends, Deals, and Policy in Water Management, Q4 2023 Nijhuis Saur Expands European Industrial Mobile Water Treatment via M&A State of the Market: PFAS Policy Landscape, Forecasts, and Competitive Analysis

The Future of Water Podcast host, Reese Tisdale, and Senior Water Analyst Charlie Suse, discuss findings and takeaways from Bluefield's Water & Sewer Rate Index, published earlier this month. For eight consecutive years now, Bluefield has engaged in a comprehensive analysis of water and sewer rates for 50 of the largest U.S. cities. Over the past 12 years, combined household water and sewer bills for a typical U.S. household has increased by a total of 56.2%, or an average of 4.2% each year. From 2022 to 2023, combined household water and sewer bills increased by 3.9%, down slightly from the 5.2% increase observed from 2021 to 2022. On a whole, water and wastewater rates are fairly stable, not changing dramatically from year-to-year. But, from city to city, there is some variation. This episode is a discussion of water rates across some of the largest utilities in the U.S., uncovering the broader trends year-on-year and causes for rate volatility at the local level. Reese Tisdale and Charlie Suse hit on trends in water rates, drivers behind water rate fluctuation, and break down some of the hidden costs in your water bill. If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen. If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday. Related Research & Analysis: U.S. Municipal Water & Sewer: Annual Utility Rate Index, 2023

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has reported that employment of water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators is projected to decline 6% from 2022 to 2032. This news shines the spotlight on a critical infrastructure sector that faces mounting challenges, from aging infrastructure assets to emerging contaminants (i.e., PFAS). As water and wastewater treatment plants become more advanced with automated systems to manage treatment processes, fewer workers may be needed. Reese Tisdale is joined by Senior Research Director Eric Bindler, who notes while some work can be automated, plants will still need skilled workers to operate increasingly complex controls and water and wastewater systems. The overall water industry BLS data shows pretty steady growth of around 1.5% for the past decade and a half.

Two Montreal-based firms have been recently taken private. On 2 October 2023, Ember Infrastructure announced it would acquire H2O Innovation Inc., a Canadian water solutions provider. A few weeks later, LOGISTEC entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by private equity firm Blue Wolf Capital Partners and infrastructure investment firm Stonepeak. The LOGISTEC acquisition,… Continue reading Are Take-Private Water Deals on the Rise?

What is saltwater intrusion and how common is it? The city of New Orleans is currently faced with a national emergency as a saltwater wedge is expected to reach the area between two and three weeks’ time impacting the drinking water supply of 1.2 million people. If contaminated, it could be weeks or months before… Continue reading Saltwater Is Coming for New Orleans’ Drinking Water, What Are the Mitigation Options?

Bluefield water experts provide a financial overview of the U.S. water industry, while breaking down regional footprints of key federal, state, and private funding sources for the water sector. This episode highlights examples of innovative utility funding and financing strategies, such as green bonds, innovative rate structures, public-private partnerships, financial technology, and advanced asset management.… Continue reading What Are the Financial Opportunities and Challenges Facing Water Utilities?

In this episode, Bluefield water experts highlight perspectives and findings from recent U.S. water utility budget and third-party O&M analysis.

In this episode, Bluefield’s water experts dive into Aegion’s acquisition of Portland Utilities Construction Company (PUCC), a trenchless service provider specializing in cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) and pipe bursting. PUCC serves the municipal market in Texas and the southeastern U.S. PUCC is Aegion’s sixth deal since 2021 and has significant market share in CIPP. Aegion has… Continue reading Aegion Adds More Deals to the List

Danish pump manufacturer Grundfos has recently acquired U.K.-based telemetry and analytics firm Metasphere from private equity investor XPV Water Partners. Grundfos has in recent years, expanded its footprint from its core pump offerings for water network management and treatment toward digital offerings. Metasphere’s specific experience with wastewater networks especially in the U.K. and Australia, will… Continue reading Grundfos Goes Deeper Into Digital Water

In Europe, the need for sustainable water management solutions has been magnified by last summer’s drought and record-breaking temperatures. The increasing severity of water stress remains a key driver behind the implementation of wastewater reuse. Particularly, in Southern Europe where water stress is more pronounced, the reuse market has witnessed greater development, although with challenges… Continue reading Water Reuse Builds Momentum in Europe

The potential collapse of Thames Water is all over the news and has raised alarm bells on many fronts. Thames Water serves approximately 15 million people across greater London. Not a small system by any comparison, and it seems to be sinking under a £14 billion debt load, thereby requiring more money.   In this episode, Bluefield’s water… Continue reading How Real Is the Thames Water Crisis?

Both the American Water Works Association and Black & Veatch have released their 2023 industry surveys of the water market. In this episode, Bluefield’s water experts discuss the survey findings and breakdown the top water industry issues: aging water infrastructure, supply chain challenges, cybersecurity, financing capital improvements, climate change, pollution. How did these industry issues… Continue reading A Review of the State of the Water Industry

There are over 72,000 community water systems and wastewater treatment facilities in the U.S. But what is the addressable market opportunity for water and wastewater for utilities and investors? And how do the opportunities vary by utility ownership, system size, and state? Our clients have been asking Bluefield to size the municipal water and wastewater… Continue reading What’s the Addressable Market for Water Utility Consolidation?

Jacobs, one of the leading engineering firms in water, announced plans to spinout its Critical Mission Solutions business unit. With this move, the company streamlines their business focus, including on water, and boosts share price in the wake of higher margins and growth. Bluefield’s water experts discuss the EPC firm’s recent strategy and what the spinout… Continue reading What’s Behind Engineering Firms’ Strategy Shifts in Water?

The semiconductor market is a buzz with activity as high demand—primarily driven by consumer electronics and automotive sectors—and policy, namely the U.S. and the EU Chips Acts, come together to create a favorable environment for billion dollar investments for new semiconductor manufacturing plants. Bluefield’s water experts discuss where the investments are happening, globally, and what… Continue reading Will Semiconductor Boom Drive Water Market Opportunities?

Bluefield’s water experts discuss the European Chemical Agency’s (ECHA) recent launch of a six-month evaluation to review a proposal for restricting the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The proposal, submitted by the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, is representative of public concerns that are escalating in the EU and applies to both… Continue reading EU Regulators Ramp Up PFAS Action for Drinking Water, Biosolids

On 20 March 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments of Arizona v. Navajo Nation, a dispute over Colorado River water rights. The court’s decision could have significant implications for the water rights of Tribes across the country. Navajo Nation is one of the Indian Health Service (IHS) administrative areas with the greatest need for… Continue reading A Perfect Storm: Tribal Infrastructure Investment, Western Water, and the U.S. Supreme Court

The global water metering market is at an inflection point, as a host of new digitally enabled technologies and business models transform global water utilities’ relationships with their meters and meter providers. Metering vendors face a host of macroeconomic, regulatory, and competitive shifts. COVID-related supply chain disruptions and component shortages have roiled the sector, delaying… Continue reading Digital Disruption In The Century-old Water Metering Market

Reese Tisdale is joined by Private Water Analyst Charlie Suse to break down investor-owned utility M&A trends and opportunities in the water sector. Which states are most active? Who are the players at the top of the IOU leaderboard? What is driving deal flow activity? Bluefield water experts identify key insights and takeaways from our… Continue reading IOU Acquisition Trends: States & Buyers to Watch and Deal Drivers

Bluefield’s industrial water experts discuss the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). The newly enacted directive provides a reporting standard for large companies operating in the EU to disclose metrics for emissions, water use, and associated risk management strategies. The CRSD represents a critical step for the EU toward greater visibility into environmental water risks.… Continue reading The EU’s Sweeping Push for Corporate Sustainability

On 24 January 2023, US-based Xylem Inc. and Evoqua announced an agreement in which Xylem will acquire Evoqua in an all-stock transaction for an enterprise value of approximately US$7.5 billion. The combination unlocks potential growth opportunities for Xylem in industrial markets and in water quality, both of which are stronger markets for Evoqua.   Pure-play water… Continue reading Xylem + Evoqua = What Does It Mean for the Water Industry?

How are IIJA legislated funds unfolding? From California to Maine, total announced funding associated with the legislation had reached US$186.3 billion. Of this total, US$10.5 billion has been announced for water-designated projects. At the same time, the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Water has released implementation guidelines for the Build America, Buy… Continue reading IIJA: Water Funding and Policy Developments

PFAS is the water industry topic du jour, shaped by lawsuits, emerging regulations, infrastructure investment and disadvantaged communities. So far, however, much of the focus has been on the U.S. drinking water sector. But these emerging contaminants are impacting water supplies and, as a result, policy makers in Europe and Australia.   Varied approaches to tackle PFAS… Continue reading PFAS: Where Is the U.S. Water Market and beyond Headed?

Shaped by a growing demand for water & wastewater infrastructure investment and an increasingly favorable policy landscape, private participation among U.S. utilities is on the rise. Bluefield’s water experts discuss their recent analysis of investor-owned utilities’ strategies, highlighting M&A trends and how companies—from American Water to private equity-backed firms—are approaching the water market.

Bluefield’s industrial water experts breakdown their recent analysis of 35 large U.S. cities with climate action plans which evaluates greenhouse emissions, energy use, reduction strategies, and water management positions. This discussion provides insight into why more U.S. cities are not developing climate action plans but also the variation in approaches for those cities with mitigation… Continue reading Which Municipalities Are Driving Climate and Water Sustainability?

In this episode, our data team discusses Bluefield’s utility data and details the journey to collect and inventory 747 capital improvement plans that have been scrubbed and cleaned for Bluefield clients. This discussion provides insights into what the data is, the value of the data, and how Bluefield clients are using this bottom-up, detailed information