DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGY IN UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

This meta-analysis presents a comprehensive evaluation of the implementation, performance outcomes, and sectoral maturity of digital twin (DT) technology across two critical utility infrastructure domains: electricity and water. Drawing on 122 peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2010 and 2024—with a cumulative citation count exceeding 10,000—the study assesses the efficacy of DTs in enhancing operational performance, reducing system downtime, improving cost efficiency, and bolstering infrastructure resilience. The findings indicate that the electricity sector demonstrates the highest degree of DT maturity, characterized by widespread adoption in smart grid optimization, real-time asset monitoring, fault prediction, and renewable energy integration. In contrast, the water sector, while moderately advanced, has achieved significant progress through the deployment of digital twins in hydraulic simulation, leak detection, stormwater forecasting, and wastewater treatment automation. Quantitative evidence reveals average downtime reductions ranging from 15% to 45%, alongside cost savings of up to 30% through predictive maintenance and optimized energy and resource use. Regional benchmarking highlights Europe and Asia as leaders in digital twin innovation, supported by robust regulatory frameworks, significant investment in smart infrastructure, and advanced ICT ecosystems. In contrast, utilities in emerging economies continue to face constraints related to legacy infrastructure, limited digital readiness, and fragmented policy environments. The study also identifies emerging opportunities shaping the next generation of DT deployment, including the integration of artificial intelligence for autonomous operational control, cloud-based Digital Twin-as-a-Service (DTaaS) platforms for scalable adoption, and strategic alignment with sustainability initiatives such as climate resilience, net-zero emissions, and smart city governance. Despite these advancements, persistent challenges remain in achieving data interoperability, ensuring cybersecurity resilience, and facilitating equitable access to DT solutions across regions. This meta-analysis not only consolidates the empirical knowledge base but also provides a forward-looking roadmap for enhancing the role of digital twins as a transformative technology in sustainable utility infrastructure management.