Overcoming challenges in the uptake of co-generated hydro-climate services for drinking water management: the inspiring case of SMHI Aqua

This study explores co-generation as a key strategy for the advancement and consequent uptake of hydro-climate servicesfor decision-making within the drinking water supply sector, focusing on the SMHI Aqua service as a case study for Sweden. The co-generation process investigated here is based on a four-pillar structure (co-design, co-development, co-delivery and co-evaluation), and it involves engagement and collaborative efforts among three main actors: service purveyors, data providers and users. The case studies were carried out in different regions of Sweden, with mainparticipation from Region Gotland and three other Swedish water-related users (Nodra, Karlskrona Municipality and Metsä Board). SMHI Aqua hydro-climate service is the result of this collective undertaking and it integrates data assimilation, forecast production and a web-based decision support system.

Addressing primarily the needs of drinking water producers and providers, freshwater availability was identified as the most descriptive indicator for supporting decisions for water management and drinking water supply. Two hydrological models were customized for the local conditions to simulate hydrological dynamics in surface and groundwater reservoirs. These models produce short- (up 10 days ahead) and long-range (up to 6 months ahead) forecasts which are updatedtwice a day, incorporating real-time hydro-meteorological measurements to update and initialize the model. Additionally, the service simulates various future freshwater availability scenarios by implementing different yearly water extraction strategies provided by the users. A user-friendly web-based platform displays the real-time (measured and modelled) and the future (forecasted) hydro-meteorological situation in the area of interest.

Outcomes of this study highlight the significance of knowledge co-evolution in facilitating the successful uptake of hydro-climate services. Effective communication of hydro-meteorological information, including its propagated uncertainty, proves to be crucial for water managers to takeinformed decisions. Beyond benefiting water-related users, co-generated hydro-climate services contribute to broader impacts reaching policy makers and the wider public by ensuring freshwater access, and improving awareness and preparedness for extreme conditions. User feedback emphasizes the substantial improvement in operational routines for drinking water management consequent to the implementation of SMHI Aqua. The active engagement and close collaboration of stakeholders throughout co-generation has a pivotal role leading to the successful uptake of the service when taking short- and long-term decisions. Overall, the co-generated SMHI Aqua hydro-climate service stands as a proof to the efficacy of co-generation in achieving informed decision-making, sustainable water resource utilization, and improved resilience especially under extreme conditions.