AI / ML in the Water and Wastewater Systems Sector: GENERATIVE AI (GenAI)

Generative AI (GenAI) is defined by the US government as “the class of AI models that emulate the structure and characteristics of input data in order to generate derived synthetic content.” As a subset of AI ML Deep Learning, GenAI uses complex algorithms and statistical models that are trained using large amounts of data, which is often open source. GenAI is evolving rapidly and can deliver creative and innovative solutions for utilities. The potential of GenAI is spurring a new wave of development from which many utilities may benefit through improved consideration of data and delivery of new insights. There are, however, constraints and challenges through which utilities must navigate before such benefits can be realized. This fact sheet explores the steps utilities can take to help ensure that they are able to fully realize the benefits of GenAI while minimizing the risks associated with its use.