From data to decision: Innovative tools transforming water management in Europe

Climate volatility and changing EU regulations are outpacing traditional water forecasting approaches. In this webinar, we’ll explore how European water managers are embracing digital transformation to navigate growing climate risks, evolving policies, and operational complexity.

Join experts from HydroForecast (Upstream Tech) and KISTERS on October 7, 10am ET / 3pm BST to learn how organizations across Europe are using AI-powered forecasting and integrated data platforms to improve operations—from optimizing reservoir releases and managing flood risk to informing energy market decisions and drought planning.

We’ll share real-world use cases and actionable  insights to demonstrate  how these tools support operational resilience, efficient  resource use, and better coordination.

Whether you're balancing inflows for power generation, managing a utility’s water supply, or preparing for the next extreme event, this session will help you understand what's possible—and how to get started.

What you'll learn

• How climate change and EU water policy are driving the need for smarter, more integrated water management.
• Why traditional forecasting methods fall short—and how AI can improve accuracy and lead time.
• How utilities, hydropower operators, and energy traders are using digital tools to streamline operations and reduce risk.
• What seamless integration between forecasting and data systems looks like in real-world workflows.
• How to take the first step toward modernizing your own operations with tools designed for flexibility and interoperability.

Meet the speakers

Matt Elgin, HydroForecast EU Market Lead at Upstream Tech

Matt is based in Basel, Switzerland. Before joining Upstream Tech, Matt worked for a provider of snow data that supported energy and water companies as they digitally transformed their operations. He has a background in renewable energy and water management, using Cloud technologies to support asset management in New Zealand, Australia, Europe and APAC. He's proud to have helped contribute to the renewable transition.

Dirk Schwanenberg, Global Head of Business Unit Water at KISTERS

Dr. Dirk Schwanenberg is a hydrologist and modeling expert with over two decades of experience developing and implementing decision-support systems for water resources, flood forecasting, and hydropower optimization. As General Manager of KISTERS HydroMet, he leads global innovation in hydrologic and meteorologic modeling and forecasting, with a focus on integrating science-based tools into operational practice. Dirk has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and has played a key role in advancing open standards and scalable software solutions for hydrological services worldwide.

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