INESC TEC and Águas do Douro e Paiva sign collaboration protocol

On 31 October, INESC TEC signed a new collaboration protocol with Águas do Douro e Paiva (AdDP) at AdDP’s facilities in Lever.

The collaboration agreement features several areas, with the initial focus expected to be on advanced, science-based consultancy in two fields where INESC TEC is a recognised national and international expert: information systems and power & energy systems.

The protocol was signed by João Claro, Chairman of the Board of Directors at INESC TEC, and António Borges, Chair of AdDP’s Board, during an event that included a tour of AdDP’s facilities: the control room and data centres at the Lever water treatment station (ETA).

“It is a privilege to collaborate with Águas do Douro e Paiva, a company renowned for operational excellence and commitment to digitalisation. This protocol further strengthens INESC TEC’s contribution to a vital sector for society, where science and innovation, from information systems to the energy transition, are crucial in ensuring safe, resilient, and sustainable water for all,” said João Claro.

Regarding information systems, José Correia, an INESC TEC researcher, explained that the consultancy will cover the full range of the AdDP’s IT infrastructures – including organisation, processes, data, applications, and technological resources, addressing aspects like data management and cybersecurity.

Concerning the power & energy systems area, the focus is the production of alternative energies, e.g., wind, solar, and hydropower, as well as support for creating renewable energy communities.

According to António Borges, signing this protocol with INESC TEC represents “another decisive step in our commitment to innovation as a driver of resilience and efficiency in a critical sector like water supply. The challenges facing this sector are increasingly complex, so it is vital to promote a culture open to research and creativity, generating knowledge and value, and contributing to the sustainability of both the company and the services provided to the region.”

Águas do Douro e Paiva’s main activity is the collection, treatment, and supply of drinking water for the southern area of the greater Porto region, serving 22 municipalities.

The protocol is set to last for an initial period of three years.