The water utility owns the pipes and sends the bill to your house. But they don't build the pumps, membranes, or UV lamps that actually clean the water — they buy those from a different group of companies. This is the "picks and shovels" of the water world: the technology that actually cleans and moves the water. It's a market worth hundreds of billions of dollars a year, growing on PFAS "forever chemical" rules, water recycling, and desalination — and unlike utilities, it isn't price-regulated, so it can profit from innovation.
Galliford Try Fair Value Raised to £7.54 on Lower Risk and Margin Views
Analysts lifted their fair value estimate for Galliford Try Holdings to £7.54 per share from £6.52, citing updated views on risk around future cash flows and the company's scope to deliver on its plans. The revised model keeps the revenue growth assumption unchanged at 4.01% while raising the net profit margin assumption to 2.49% from 2.14%. The future P/E assumption moved to 18.52x from 18.93x, and the discount rate eased to 9.53% from 9.61%. Cautious analysts note the higher fair value still rests on assumptions about cash flow timing and project delivery, warning that any slip in execution could leave the stock exposed if the market has already priced in much of the revised value. The narrative also folds in expansion into energy and capital maintenance markets, particularly water and wastewater treatment, alongside a reentry into the affordable homes market using modern methods of construction.
Crane Company to Acquire Trillium Flow Technologies' U.S. Pump Business for $240 Million
Crane Company announced a definitive agreement on September 14 to acquire Trillium Flow Technologies' U.S. pump business for approximately $240 million. The operations primarily serve municipal water and wastewater customers and are expected to generate approximately $115 million in full-year revenue, with closing expected in the fourth quarter subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions. The deal would add the Floway, Wemco, Roto-Jet and WSP brands to Crane's Process Flow Technologies segment, and Crane disclosed a price of approximately 14.6 times estimated 2026 adjusted EBITDA. The announcement did not quantify aftermarket revenue's share of the business, its margins, expected synergies, or integration costs, nor did it specify the funding mix. Process Flow Technologies' second-quarter sales rose 20.9% to $385.6 million while company-defined non-GAAP core sales declined 1.4%, and at June 30 Crane held $350.4 million of cash and $1.098 billion of debt before subsequently repaying another $90 million.
RBC Downgrades Mueller Water to Underperform on Municipal Spending Slowdown
RBC Capital downgraded Mueller Water Products to Underperform from Sector Perform and cut its price target to $21 from $30, sending shares down 3.2% in Thursday's trading. Analyst Jeffrey Reive said the consensus expectation for 4% FY 2027 revenue growth does not reflect the combined headwinds of fading federal stimulus, hydrant backlog normalization, and ongoing residential softness. Reive considers Mueller one of the most exposed stocks in RBC's coverage to a slowdown in municipal water spending, since its core valve and hydrant business is tied to municipal project activity and funding availability, and he believes it lacks the structural buffer against near-term funding shifts that peers such as Badger Meter or Veralto possess. He said his concern is not with execution but with expected pressure from a falloff in federal stimulus that is fully reflected in consensus estimates, adding that the hydrant backlog workdown supporting FY 2026 revenue growth is unlikely to repeat, which he sees as a $35M headwind with limited offsets as residential construction still tries to find a bottom.
ABB launches AquaMaster+ digital platform for water networks in India
ABB has launched AquaMaster+, a digital platform for smart water network management designed to help water utilities in India monitor, analyze and manage their networks, prevent pipeline water losses and optimize operations. The integrated platform combines hardware, advanced software capabilities and cloud-based decision-making tools, and is available to water companies using ABB's AquaMaster4 flowmeters or as a standalone software solution that can be integrated into existing systems. The launch builds on ABB's AquaMaster electromagnetic flowmeters, which mark 20 years in India, growing from a first installation in Bengaluru to nearly 2,000 units across 15 cities in eight states, including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Odisha and Delhi, with Bengaluru alone running some 500 units. AquaMaster+ offers fleet-level insights with GIS mapping as well as device insights covering flow and pressure shifts, device diagnostics and remote configuration, which improves response times and reduces travel costs. Raghu Kumar NV, Global Product Manager in ABB's Measurement & Analytics division, said the platform connects water utilities to crucial flow measurement insights to help the water sector outrun, leaner and cleaner.
FVC unveils second-half 2026 plan, to recognise backlog across four core businesses, supporting revenue growth in line with target
Filter Vision Public Company Limited, or FVC, has announced its operating plan for the second half of 2026, focusing on cost management, maintaining liquidity, and accelerating revenue recognition from its order backlog across four core business groups, after its second-quarter 2026 results showed sales and service revenue of 111.42 million baht, up 10.15% from the same period a year earlier, and net profit from continuing operations of 4.41 million baht, a rise of 1,675%, with gross profit margin increasing to 34.10%. For the first six months of 2026, sales and service revenue totalled 468.36 million baht, up 122.21% from the same period a year earlier. In the industrial and water-system operator business group, or B1, the company received trading product orders from 16 customers worth 3.12 million baht, plus 22 projects covering water-system installation, automatic drinking-water dispensers, services, and maintenance contracts, with a combined value of 5.23 million baht, which will be gradually recognised as revenue in the second half. In the commercial and residential business group, or B2, there are orders for ice-machine system installation on two projects with a combined value of 32.32 million baht, expected to be completed and recognised as revenue within the second half of 2026. In the medical services business group, or B3, KT Medical Service Public Company Limited, or KTMS, plans to expand its dialysis centres by three to five branches and add roughly 36 to 64 dialysis machines during the third quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, Irving Corporation Company Limited has orders for water-system installation on 12 projects with a combined value of 9.46 million baht, and Medical Vision Company Limited is installing medical specimen delivery and return air-pipe systems on three projects with a combined value of 0.47 million baht. In the industrial estate development and integrated utility services business group, or B4, the company succeeded in selling land in the World Lamphun Industrial Estate Phase 2 project under one contract with a combined value of 611.49 million baht, with ownership transfer and revenue recognition expected within the fourth quarter of 2026. Managing Director Wichit Techakasem said the backlog from all four business groups, which will be gradually recognised in the second half, together with the significant revenue from the land sale in the fourth quarter, will drive 2026 results to grow in line with the target, while the company will also focus on cost control and improving profitability for quality and sustainable growth.
FLE charges into second-half high season with 352 million baht backlog, targets 500 million by year-end
Frontline Engineering Public Company Limited, or FLE, is preparing to enter high-season mode in the second half of the year. Chief Executive Officer Phanu Chokapirat said the company sees improving business prospects from opportunities in water system projects from the government and state enterprises expected to roll out under the fiscal 2027 budget framework. As of July 31, 2026, the company holds a backlog of 352 million baht, which will be gradually recognized as revenue in line with project progress, and it aims to lift the backlog to 500 million baht by the end of this year. At the same time, FLE is pushing ahead with its water pump rental business, which has already secured seven customer contracts, with plans to add more contracts continuously in order to generate recurring income and broaden its revenue sources. For the second-half operating performance, the company expects growth to outpace the first half, driven by the gradual delivery of work on hand and new project wins that bolster the backlog in both its existing business and the water pump rental business, which is a new venture.
BioLargo Canada and Fort McKay Form Indigenous-Led Water Venture
BioLargo Canada Inc. has entered a strategic partnership with Fort McKay Oil Services, a registered First-Nation company, to form Tũ Nipi Water Solutions Ltd., an Indigenous-led venture in which BioLargo Canada holds a minority stake, to treat oil sands process water and other wastewater in northern Alberta. The partnership is backed by a conditional grant commitment from Emissions Reduction Alberta supporting a CAD $4.6 million project, with commercial trials already underway. Alberta's tailings ponds hold more than 1.4 billion cubic meters of fluid tailings, and the government has accepted recommendations to develop treatment technologies, while federal Bill C-37 aims to set national water standards for First Nation lands. Tũ Nipi and BioLargo Canada have also identified an initial wastewater project for PFAS and odor control technologies. A formal launch event is planned in Fort McMurray in October.
LACROIX water quality sensor sales grow fivefold to €2.5 million
LACROIX, a French technology and industrial group, announced that its water quality sensor sales grew fivefold between 2023 and 2025, reaching €2.5 million in annual revenue, driven by regulatory demands and public investment plans in Spain, France, and Italy. The company, which generated €445 million in total revenue in 2025, has expanded its portfolio with the SOFREL Chlorine sensor for drinking water and a multiparameter sensor for wastewater, with a second drinking water sensor planned for 2026. Growth, largely driven by Spain in 2025, is expected to slow from the second half of 2026 following the conclusion of the Spanish PERTE funding programme, but LACROIX aims to maintain strong momentum by broadening its drinking water quality monitoring solutions. CEO Vincent Bedouin emphasized the importance of comprehensive, cybersecurity-enabled solutions for real-time water management.
Wint has raised a $36 million Series D funding round co-led by LIP Ventures and Inven Capital to expand its AI-driven water intelligence platform for buildings. The company will use the capital to accelerate product development and deepen its reach among enterprise building owners, insurers, and facility managers. This round follows a strategic investment from Grosvenor in December 2025 and comes after Wint reported saving 1.15 billion gallons of water and preventing $100 million in damage across more than 1,300 incidents in 2025. The funding signals growing enterprise and insurer appetite for proactive water-risk technology as climate-driven damage costs push building owners toward AI-based prevention tools.
AECOM has been selected by the Santa Clara Valley Water District to provide design services for the Pure Water Silicon Valley Demonstration Facility, a project aimed at advancing direct potable reuse as a drought-resilient water source. The facility, capable of producing up to 200 gallons per minute, will be built at the existing Silicon Valley Advanced Water Purification Center and will include a 10,000-square-foot learning center. Following the news, ACM stock gained 0.6% during trading hours yesterday. This award comes as AECOM's U.S. water pipeline expanded 30% in the third quarter of fiscal 2026, with total backlog up 13% year over year to a record high. Quarterly wins reached $4.2 billion, including $4 billion in design wins, and the design pipeline hit an all-time high. The project strengthens AECOM's position in the growing water-reuse market, though the company faces competition from EMCOR and Sterling Infrastructure, which are also benefiting from strong infrastructure demand.
Gradiant Wins Major Water Contract for West Texas AI Data Center Campus
Gradiant, the water layer of the AI economy, announced a new contract to deliver a full turnkey water and wastewater package for a hyperscale AI data center campus in West Texas, developed by one of the world's largest technology companies. The project, part of Gradiant's HyperSolved platform, covers potable water supply and wastewater treatment with a zero-surface-discharge design, supporting one of the largest multi-billion-dollar AI investments in the United States. CEO Prakash Govindan emphasized that water-scarce regions are where hyperscale growth is happening, and this project demonstrates that operators can build without water constraints. Managing Director for the Americas, Nish Vora, noted the tight schedule and tough water constraints, highlighting the company's existing presence in Texas. This win expands Gradiant's portfolio of water infrastructure for AI data centers, which includes treatment technologies, CURE Chemicals, and SmartOps.
Water Infrastructure Q2: Mueller Beats, Watts Leads, Tennant Lags
In the Q2 earnings season for water infrastructure stocks, Mueller Water Products reported revenues of $395.9 million, up 4.1% year on year, exceeding analysts' expectations by 1.2%, and delivered a very strong quarter with beats on EPS and EBITDA estimates, though it gave the weakest full-year guidance update in the group. Among the five tracked companies, Watts Water Technologies was the best performer, with revenues of $763.2 million, up 18.6% year on year, beating expectations by 4.9%, while Tennant was the weakest, with revenues of $324 million, up 1.7%, missing estimates by 1.7% and providing disappointing EBITDA guidance. Energy Recovery saw revenues plummet 57.2% to $12 million, missing estimates by 36.3%, and Xylem reported revenues of $2.34 billion, up 1.5%, meeting expectations. As a group, the companies' revenues missed consensus estimates by 6.4%, and their shares have declined on average 9.4% since the latest earnings results.
Veolia Signs Three Strategic Agreements in Saudi Arabia
Veolia Environnement has signed three strategic memorandums of understanding with Acwa, Ma'aden, and Khazeen to accelerate environmental security in Saudi Arabia, focusing on water technologies and hazardous waste management. The agreements aim to preserve water resources, enhance energy efficiency, decarbonize industry, and develop local skills, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and Veolia's GreenUp program. With Acwa, a world-leading desalination company, Veolia will optimize desalination plant performance, potentially reducing emissions by 500,000 tons of CO2 per year. With Ma'aden, a major mining player, the partnership will improve water cycle and industrial waste management. With Khazeen, a GASCO subsidiary specializing in LPG storage, Veolia will deploy environmental technologies to support decarbonization and offer integrated facility management. Veolia has been present in Saudi Arabia since 1975 and continues to support the Kingdom's essential infrastructure.
Xylem Shares Down 7.1% Since Q2 Beat, Guidance Raised
Xylem's shares have fallen 7.1% since its last earnings report, underperforming the S&P 500, but the company beat second-quarter estimates and raised its full-year guidance. Adjusted earnings of $1.46 per share beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.34 by 9%, while revenues of $2.34 billion edged past expectations. Orders surged 42% year over year to $3.09 billion, and adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 23.3% from 21.8%. For 2026, Xylem now expects adjusted earnings of $5.55 to $5.70 per share, up from its prior range of $5.35 to $5.60, and revenues of approximately $9.2 billion. The company also bought back $1.24 billion in shares during the first half of the year, up from $13 million a year earlier.
AirJoule Reports Q2 Loss as Water Scarcity Boosts Data Center Demand
AirJoule Technologies reported a second-quarter net loss of $8.5 million, mostly noncash, while highlighting that water-use restrictions in New York, Texas, and California are creating sales opportunities for its water-from-air systems. The company signed an exclusive sales agreement with Kubota Corporation in July for residential developments in Texas and California, and it is deploying pilot units at GE Vernova's campus and Expo City Dubai. AirJoule raised its 2026 cash spend guidance to $27 million to $28 million, up from $25 million, and holds $43 million in cash with zero debt. Management expects only modest paid deployment revenue in 2026, with meaningful commercial revenue not arriving until 2027.
NESDB Warns Thailand to Set Data Center Rules Before Resource Crisis
The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDB) has issued a report warning of the challenges from Data Center investment in Thailand, which is expanding rapidly amid the growth of AI technology and the digital economy. It points out that this industry consumes enormous amounts of electricity and water, especially water for cooling systems, which could impact households and agriculture if water balance planning is not coordinated with relevant agencies. Moreover, Thailand still relies on importing advanced technology such as chips and servers, so most economic benefits occur only during the construction phase. Meanwhile, legal and regulatory gaps remain, as some investors avoid applying for BOI promotion and instead obtain licenses from other agencies, preventing the state from comprehensively controlling environmental impacts. NESDB therefore proposes four solutions: establishing a main regulatory body, setting proportions for using Thai goods and labor, allowing public participation in oversight, and enforcing energy-saving technologies with clear water and electricity usage targets, so that Thailand does not merely bear the environmental costs.
ROTEC Ltd. has been awarded the design for the use of Flow Reversal Reverse Osmosis at PUB Singapore's Changi NEWater Factory 3, an 86 million gallons per day plant. The company is in the final design phase for the project in collaboration with Jacobs Solutions, and the incorporation of FR-RO is designed to enable NEWater recovery of up to 90%, compared with the 75% recovery historically associated with conventional NEWater RO systems. This award follows ROTEC's work at the Tuas Water Reclamation Plant, where six FR-RO units have recently been delivered, each designed for more than 7 MGD of treatment capacity, representing 44 MGD of municipal water reuse now preparing for commissioning. The combined Singapore flow reversal capacity exceeds 130 MGD, and the Changi project will be ROTEC's largest Flow Reversal application to date.
LiqTech Cuts 2026 Revenue Guidance After Water Project Delay
LiqTech International reported second-quarter revenue of $4.4 million, down 12% year over year, and cut its full-year revenue guidance to $20 million to $23 million after a major Water for Energy project was delayed by a customer's organizational change. Commercial Pool revenue hit a record $1.5 million, up from $0.8 million a year earlier, while Marine revenue rose to $0.7 million from $0.4 million. The company posted a net loss of $3.1 million, wider than the $2.2 million loss in the prior-year quarter, and adjusted EBITDA was negative $1.6 million. LiqTech completed a June public offering with about $18 million in net proceeds, using part of it to repay senior promissory notes and original issue discount notes, and ended the quarter with $15.7 million in cash including restricted cash. The company also announced a $2.1 million follow-on order from a U.S.-based steel manufacturer for four additional wastewater filtration systems, with about 75% of that order expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.
Consolidated Water Q2 revenue dips 2% as manufacturing slide offsets bulk water growth
Consolidated Water reported second-quarter 2026 revenue of $32.9 million, down 2% from a year earlier, as a 49% plunge in manufacturing revenue to $2.7 million outweighed gains in bulk water, retail and services. Net income from continuing operations fell to $4.0 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, from $5.2 million, or $0.32 per diluted share. The company secured a new 25-year retail water license in Grand Cayman that preserves its exclusive territory and is expected to cut customers' average water cost by about 6.5%. After the quarter, Consolidated Water received a $10.1 million Florida equipment order and advanced procurement for its planned Hawaii desalination facility, with management expecting these projects to support results through 2027. The company ended June with $132.6 million in cash, $144.6 million in working capital and no significant debt.
England declares 71.3% of its area in drought after lowest rainfall in 190 years
The National Drought Group of England declared additional areas to be in drought on Monday, bringing the total to 71.3% of England now facing flash drought. This follows July rainfall being the lowest in 190 years, and August rainfall so far at only 5% of expected levels. Around 45 million people live in drought-affected areas, and more than 27 million are under water restriction measures. The Water Minister said the government recognises the hardship, especially the impact on farmers from climate change, which is causing more frequent floods and droughts.
Tutor Perini Wins $69.5 Million Death Valley Water Rehab Contract
Tutor Perini subsidiary Perini Management Services has been awarded a $69.5 million contract to rehabilitate water and wastewater treatment systems at Death Valley National Park. The project includes new potable water wells, a rebuilt reverse osmosis facility, chlorination and controls, and replacement of sewer mains, laterals, and pump stations. Work is scheduled to start in fall 2026 with substantial completion targeted for early 2029, and the contract will enter Tutor Perini's backlog in the third quarter of 2026. This award adds to the company's government-focused pipeline alongside its existing multibillion-dollar megaprojects.
AirJoule Technologies deploys water generation system at GE Vernova research center
AirJoule Technologies has deployed an AirJoule Core atmospheric water generation system at GE Vernova's new Advanced Research Center in New York, where it will serve as a live customer showcase. The deployment comes as AirJoule's share price has gained 27.33% over the past week and 57.46% over 90 days, though the three-year total shareholder return remains down 46.61%. The most-followed narrative on the stock, based on a last close of $5.59, points to a fair value of $12.00 using an 8.44% discount rate, framing the shares as 53.4% undervalued. That bullish view leans on future revenue ramp, margin lift, and a rich earnings multiple, supported by a balance sheet with US$35 million in combined cash between the company and its joint venture, no debt, and guidance that this funding supports operations through 2027. The narrative still hinges on successful commercialization timelines and large-scale adoption by data center and Middle East customers.
United Flow Technologies acquires Iron Horse Environmental to expand Mid-Atlantic water treatment reach
United Flow Technologies has acquired Iron Horse Environmental, a Pennsylvania-based provider of water and wastewater treatment equipment and services. The deal strengthens UFT's presence across Eastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Delaware, adding specialized expertise in pumping, mixing, solids handling, odor control, and disinfection. Iron Horse Environmental will operate as part of UFT's platform of regional brands, which is backed by private equity firm Berkshire Partners. UFT CEO Matt Hart said the acquisition brings exceptional technical support and responsive service that municipal operators depend on.
DXP Enterprises posts record EBITDA margin as water sales surge
DXP Enterprises reported second-quarter sales rose 15.6 percent year over year to 576.5 million dollars, while adjusted EBITDA margin reached a company-record 12.2 percent. Net income increased to 28.7 million dollars and diluted earnings per share climbed to 1.76 dollars from 1.43 dollars a year earlier. Innovative Pumping Solutions sales jumped 52.6 percent to 142.7 million dollars, driven by water and wastewater activity, and DXP Water sales rose 85.6 percent year over year amid sustained municipal infrastructure demand. Free cash flow improved to 29.8 million dollars in the quarter, and the company completed four acquisitions plus the purchase of Canadian firm Mequipco to expand its water platform. Management said it is targeting a sustainable long-term adjusted EBITDA margin of 12 percent.
EASTW joins hands with WMA to study wastewater reuse
Eastern Water Resources Development and Management Public Company Limited, or East Water, and the Wastewater Management Authority have signed a memorandum of understanding to study approaches for wastewater management and water reuse in Thailand. The aim is to strengthen water security and support the growth of cities, industries, and future investment. This collaboration seeks to address challenges from climate change, drought risks, and rising water demand driven by the expansion of target industries such as data centers, advanced electronics, and semiconductors. The two agencies will jointly study water quality improvement technologies and develop operational models with local authorities to create practical systems. Mr. Bodin Udon, Managing Director of East Water, stated that modern water management must focus on value under the circular economy concept, where reusing treated water will help reduce reliance on natural water sources and create economic and environmental balance. Mr. Cheera Wongburana, Director of the Wastewater Management Authority, added that combining the expertise of both organizations will help drive technical studies and economic viability to support sustainable urban development in the long term.
Stantec joint venture wins US$150 million USACE contract for Charleston coastal resilience
Stantec, in a joint venture with Johnson, Mirmiran and Thompson, has been awarded a US$150 million contract by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Charleston District to design critical infrastructure for coastal storm risk management on the Charleston peninsula. The contract is part of a larger program with a total value of US$1.2 billion, under which the team will lead the design of more than eight miles of integrated coastal infrastructure including storm surge barriers, floodwalls, levees, pump stations, and multiple gate structures, as well as nature-based features such as living shorelines and oyster reefs. The project aims to protect over 40,000 residents and nationally significant historic landmarks from increasing storm surge vulnerability. Stantec brings experience from major U.S. coastal storm risk management programs, including work in New Orleans, New York City, and Galveston.
Veralto's Q2 Earnings Beat Estimates, Rise 19.4% Year Over Year
Veralto reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.11 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 11% and rising 19.4% from the prior year. Sales reached $1.47 billion, surpassing estimates by 2.5% and growing 7.6% year over year, with core sales up 4.2% led by a 5.7% increase in Water Quality. Adjusted operating profit climbed 11.7% to $363 million, and the adjusted operating margin expanded 90 basis points to 24.6%, aided by tariff refunds that added 5 cents per share. For the third quarter, Veralto projects adjusted earnings of $1.06 to $1.09 per share, above the consensus of $1.00, and raised its full-year 2026 adjusted earnings guidance to $4.35 to $4.43 from $4.20 to $4.28.
ONWR Confirms Sufficient Water Reserves to Cope with Strong El Niño Late Next Year
The Office of the National Water Resources has confirmed that there is sufficient water supply for water management this year, even though the Meteorological Department forecasts that El Niño will intensify to a very strong level from October to December 2026. The four main dams in the Chao Phraya River Basin had a combined usable water volume of 17.245 billion cubic meters as of November 1, 2025, which is higher than the 4.247 billion cubic meters recorded during the El Niño period in 2015. It is projected that as of November 1, 2026, the usable water volume will be 12.105 billion cubic meters. The ONWR has also instructed all agencies to prepare without complacency, especially in areas outside irrigation zones, while urging farmers to cultivate according to plans and calling on all sectors to conserve water. At the same time, it has ordered inspections of waterway obstructions to improve drainage efficiency in line with measures for the 2026 rainy season.
GE Vernova Deploys AirJoule Water System at Frontier Campus
AirJoule Technologies has deployed its atmospheric water generation system at GE Vernova's new Advanced Research Center Frontier Campus. The installation provides a live demonstration of AirJoule's technology for industrial and data center water and energy needs, marking the first time the collaboration has been implemented and publicized at this scale. GE Vernova is using the Frontier Campus as a showcase for applied research in power and energy infrastructure, and the AirJoule system is part of a broader push to address water use, energy efficiency, and resiliency for heavy facilities and data centers. The deployment gives GE Vernova an additional proof point as it engages industrial, utility, and data center customers facing water and grid constraints.
Pentair to acquire Taco Group for approximately $1.4 billion
Pentair has agreed to acquire Taco Group Holdings, a provider of hydronic and water-based solutions, for approximately $1.4 billion, subject to customary adjustments. The purchase price represents roughly 10.5 times estimated 2026 EBITDA, including about $165 million in tax benefits and around $30 million in expected annual run-rate cost synergies. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, and Pentair plans to finance the acquisition using a combination of cash on hand and committed bridge financing, which it intends to refinance through a permanent debt issuance. Following the close, Taco will become part of Pentair's Water Solutions segment and will continue operating under the Taco brand while maintaining a significant presence in Cranston, Rhode Island. Pentair said the acquisition expands its portfolio of smart, sustainable water solutions and increases its exposure to high-growth end markets, primarily in North America, and the deal is also expected to be approximately $0.10 to $0.15 accretive to adjusted earnings per share in fiscal year 2027.
Rio Tinto and WA Government sign non-binding agreements to sell Dampier desalination plant to Yindjibarndi WaterCo
Rio Tinto and the Western Australian Government have signed non-binding agreements for a proposed sale of their respective joint venture shares in the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant to Yindjibarndi WaterCo. The plant, a 50:50 joint venture between Rio Tinto and the WA Government, has a construction budget of A$1.1 billion and is expected to provide 8 gigalitres of desalinated water into the West Pilbara Water Supply Scheme. A binding deal is targeted by the end of the year, with terms confidential and the sale price subject to construction costs and related factors. Construction of Stage 1, with a 4 gigalitre annual capacity, is expected to be completed this year with first water in early 2027, while Stage 2 construction has commenced and will add a further 4 gigalitres of annual capacity with first water expected in 2027. Rio Tinto will remain responsible for managing construction activities, with operational control proposed to transfer to Yindjibarndi WaterCo following construction completion, subject to a binding divestment agreement, due diligence processes and relevant approvals.
AirJoule Technologies Shares Jump 15.3% After Exclusive Kubota Deal for Texas and California Housing Markets
AirJoule Technologies shares rose 15.3% after the company announced an exclusive commercial partnership with Kubota Corporation to market and sell its atmospheric water generation systems to multi-unit residential developments in Texas and California, with initial deployments scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026. The deal gives Kubota exclusive rights in those two states, linking AirJoule's waste-heat-driven water-from-air technology directly to water-scarce US housing markets. The partnership is seen as a step toward decentralized water infrastructure for large residential projects, though the company still faces the challenge of converting early projects into binding contracts and managing cash burn from a minimal revenue base. AirJoule also recently unveiled its large-scale AirJoule Prime system in June 2026, targeting industrial and data center settings, with early optimization work underway in Newark and future European trials planned. Some analysts had already projected up to $32.4 million in revenue by 2029 before the Kubota news, while the company's own narrative forecasts $13.6 million in revenue and $1.4 million in earnings by that year.
Consolidated Water gets limited notice to proceed on Hawaii project and record $10.1 million Florida equipment order
Consolidated Water has received a Limited Notice to Proceed from the Honolulu Board of Water Supply for its Kalaeloa seawater desalination project in Hawaii, releasing approximately $6 million in project funds for long-lead equipment procurement. The company also secured purchase orders totaling approximately $10.1 million from a Florida east coast municipality for nanofiltration membrane water treatment equipment and horizontal cartridge filters, marking the largest orders in its history for municipal membrane-based equipment and horizontal cartridge filters. The Kalaeloa facility is designed to produce 1.7 million gallons of potable water per day, with Consolidated Water contracted to operate and maintain it for 20 years plus two five-year extension options, though construction start remains pending due to permitting delays outside both parties' control. Delivery of the Florida equipment is scheduled for November 2027.
Hitachi Energy joins EGAT to pilot world's first 550 kV EconiQ Retrofill project
Hitachi Energy, in collaboration with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, is set to launch the world's first 550 kilovolt EconiQ Retrofill project at the Nan high-voltage substation. The project will upgrade a 130-metre gas-insulated transmission line by replacing the existing sulfur hexafluoride gas with a new eco-friendly gas mixture. It is expected to eliminate approximately 800 kilograms of SF6 gas usage, reduce greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to up to 97 tonnes, and cut climate impact by more than 95 percent without replacing the system's main equipment. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2026 and is part of Hitachi Energy's global roadmap to develop SF6-free high-voltage technology, aligning with Thailand's goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
EXIM BANK Hosts Seminar to Prepare Thai Entrepreneurs for EU Packaging Regulations PPWR
EXIM BANK held a seminar to prepare Thai entrepreneurs for the European Union's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, or PPWR, which will come into practical effect on 12 August 2026. Mr. Chalat Rattanaboonnithi, Managing Director of EXIM BANK, revealed that there are over 3,400 environmental trade measures under the European Green Deal, and small entrepreneurs have adapted very little. Ms. Woramon Sinsuwan, Director of the European Union Division, Department of European Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the PPWR is a regulation that all 27 EU member states must comply with immediately. Entrepreneurs must prepare a Technical Document and a Declaration of Conformity to confirm that packaging contains no hazardous substances such as heavy metals and PFAS, covering all three levels of packaging. Dr. Weerachat Kittirattanapaiboon, Chief Executive Officer of Better World Green Public Company Limited, emphasized that replacing plastic with natural materials from Thailand's agricultural base, such as bagasse and rice straw, is a sustainable solution that also increases farmers' incomes. EXIM BANK also offers non-financial services to help SMEs prepare sustainability reports in line with GRI standards, as well as loan products for adaptation, such as EXIM Solar D-Carbon loans and Green X Transformation loans, with interest rates starting at 2.75% per year.
PowerChina signs subcontract for Basra desalination water conveyance system in Iraq worth about 8.925 billion yuan
A subsidiary of PowerChina, Sinohydro Bureau 5, has signed a subcontract with Iraq's Rida Company for the water conveyance system of the Basra desalination project in Iraq, with a contract value equivalent to approximately 8.925 billion yuan. The project is located in Basra Province, Iraq, and the main scope of work involves the design and construction of a water conveyance system with a daily supply capacity of 1 million cubic meters, including a roughly 240-kilometer water pipeline, one main pumping station, and nine receiving pumping stations. The project timeline consists of a six-month limited commencement period plus 1,350 days for the main works, with a defects liability period of 24 months.
Clean Air Tops Luxury in Homebuyer Priorities, Redfin Survey Finds
More than one-third of U.S. house hunters say a clean home with high-end air and water filtration systems is a top-three priority for their next residence, according to a Redfin survey. The 36% share ties with security systems as the most sought-after feature, outranking views at 25%, smart-home technology at 20%, and backup power generation at 19%. Climate-resilient upgrades are a top priority for 14% of respondents, while luxury amenities like home theaters and tennis courts trail at 7% and 4%, respectively. The findings come as wildfire smoke from Canada recently triggered air quality alerts across much of the eastern U.S., underscoring a broader shift toward healthier indoor environments. Millennials and Gen Zers lead the demand, with 37% and 40% respectively ranking clean homes as a top priority.
Veralto acquires Alfaa UV to expand ultraviolet water treatment portfolio
Veralto has acquired Alfaa UV, an India-based provider of ultraviolet water treatment solutions with more than 20 years of experience serving industrial and commercial applications. Alfaa UV will be integrated into Veralto’s Trojan Technologies business, adding a strong portfolio of competitive, fit-for-purpose solutions and an established commercial presence in India.
Sodium Chlorite Market to Reach USD 487.86 Million by 2035
The global sodium chlorite market is projected to grow from USD 287.38 million in 2025 to USD 487.86 million by 2035, at a compound annual growth rate of 5.41 percent, according to SNS Insider. The water treatment segment held a 52 percent share in 2025, driven by strict municipal regulations and rising infrastructure investments. North America is forecast to expand at the fastest pace with a CAGR of nearly 6.8 percent, while Asia Pacific accounted for around 44 percent of global revenues in 2025, led by China with 44.8 percent of the region's total. Key players include ERCO Worldwide, Kemira Oyj, and BASF SE, with recent capacity expansions by ERCO Worldwide in 2026 and new product introductions by Kemira Oyj in 2025.
Cabinet approves 843 million baht central budget to restore irrigation systems in five southern provinces
The cabinet has approved a central budget of 843.26 million baht for the Royal Irrigation Department to repair and restore irrigation systems damaged by floods in five southern provinces: Songkhla, Satun, Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, covering a total of 67 projects. This project draws funds from the fiscal year 2026 expenditure budget under the emergency or necessary reserve fund. Examples of works include repairing the R.1 drainage canal in Songkhla province and repairing the right-bank main canal embankment in the Pattani water delivery and maintenance project. The prime minister stressed that relevant agencies must use the funds strictly for their intended purposes, expedite completion, and prioritize economy, value for money, and public benefit.