The water treatment market - France

The global water treatment market is on a strong growth trajectory, having been valued at $145 billion with projections to reach $211 billion by 2025, according to Market Research Expertz. This growth is driven by an increased need for clean water, rapid population growth, urbanization, growing awareness of water quality and public health, the prevalence of water-borne diseases, rising industrial demand and stringent government regulations on wastewater treatment. Population growth, urbanization and industrial development are catalyzing demand, while technological advances and regulatory frameworks are fostering sustainable and efficient water management practices. The French water treatment market, in particular, is stable with modest growth.

France's consumption pattern is evolving; domestic consumption is declining despite population growth, with an emphasis on water conservation and the use of more efficient equipment. Water consumption by agriculture and industry varies, as agriculture is strongly influenced by seasonal rainfall. The market is highly structured, with major players such as Veolia and Suez leading the way, and innovations in the recycling of treated water and sewage sludge indicating a trend towards circular economies.

Changing trends in French water treatment demand

In France, the water treatment market is largely influenced by three main uses: domestic, agricultural and industrial, with each sector displaying distinct water use trends. Although the French population is growing, it is interesting to note that domestic water consumption has followed a downward trajectory, suggesting increased efficiency and greater environmental awareness among consumers. This decline is mirrored in the agriculture and industry (excluding energy) sectors, although consumption in the latter remained stable. The domestic sector, which includes households, municipalities and tertiary activities, does not appear to be experiencing increased demand for water treatment.

Average water consumption per person per day is between 160 and 180 liters, in line with European standards but well below the figures for countries such as the USA. It should be noted, however, that water consumption varies considerably from one region of France to another, with factors such as climate, tourism and the proportion of second homes having a significant influence on these figures.

The industrial sector, which accounts for 16% of water volumes abstracted in France, mainly serves the chemical industry, which leads the way in water consumption. However, production trends suggest a gradual growth in production followed by a recent plateau, indicating a potential shift in industrial demand for water treatment services that could be affected by various economic pressures.

Agricultural water demand is the most volatile, as it is highly dependent on seasonal and annual rainfall. While the total agricultural area used has stabilized after a period of decline, water use for irrigation can fluctuate considerably, particularly during periods of low rainfall, which can lead to state-imposed water restrictions. Financially, the water treatment sector is largely state-supported, with households and businesses together accounting for two-thirds of total funding for management services.

Investments by delegated water companies, excluding research and development, fluctuate between 750 and 800 million euros, mainly allocated to the crucial transport and distribution infrastructure. In summary, the French water treatment market is characterized by declining domestic water consumption, relatively stable but possibly declining industrial demand, and highly variable agricultural demand. These trends are key to shaping demand analysis in the sector, with key players and regulatory frameworks evolving in line with these changes

In France, the water treatment market is shaped by a number of key players who not only cover a wide range of services, but also play a fundamental role in the development of the industry. Each company, with its specialized expertise and strategic operations, contributes to the stability and growth of the country's water treatment ecosystem. Here, we take a look at the main entities that stand out for their influential presence.

• Veolia is widely regarded as a global giant in the sector, extending its services well beyond France's borders. An emblem of excellence in water management, Veolia offers innovative solutions in water capture, purification and distribution. The company is also heavily invested in the sustainable treatment and reuse of wastewater, aligning itself with today's pressing environmental concerns.
• Suez is another formidable name, also known for its long-standing contributions to water and waste management. A solid player in the market, Suez offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the requirements of both the public and private sectors. Its water treatment processes are essential for ensuring clean water supplies and maintaining hygiene and health standards throughout the country.
• Saur, while not the size of Veolia and Suez, is nevertheless a key player, with a focused approach to meeting the water needs of communities and industry. Its operations have a significant impact on the overall structure of the French water treatment market, with a focus on providing quality service to a wide range of customers.
• SCP (Société du Canal de Provence), although less well known than the market leaders, has a niche but significant presence in the market, particularly in the Provence region. It specializes in water resource management, ensuring efficient distribution for domestic and agricultural uses.
• Sogedo is another key figure on the French water treatment scene, providing tailor-made water services mainly to rural and semi-urban areas.

Together, these players represent the backbone of the French water treatment market, each bringing unique strengths and specializations to the table. Their positioning and strategies reflect not only their dominant market positions, but also their commitment to meeting the diverse needs of a country that places great importance on its water resources. With a collective vision of sustainable management and innovative treatment, these companies are paving the way for a future where clean water remains accessible and environmentally-friendly practices are the norm.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 07/08/2023

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Water treatment market value
• Chiffre d'affaires de la collecte et du traitement de l'eau
• Évolution de l'usage de l'eau prélevée
• Consommation d'eau en France par usage
• Évolution de l'usage de l'eau prélevée (hors refroidissement des centrales)
• Évolution des prélèvements en eau pour les usages domestiques de la population
• Evolution de la part sur le marché de la piscine privé en fonction de la CSP
• Répartition des prélèvements d’eau douce pour les autres usages, principalement industriels, entre les différentes activités économiques concernées
• Évolution de la surface agricole utilisée en France métropolitaine
• Nombre de stations de traitement des eaux usées urbaines (STEU) selon le niveau de traitement
• Milieux de rejet des eaux usées traitées par les stations d'épuration
• Répartition des volumes d'eau douce prélevés par usage et par milieux
• Modes de gestion des services publics d'eau potable
• Mode de gestion des stations de traitement d'eaux usées
• Répartition de l'emploi en équivalent temps plein dans la collecte et l'assainissement des eaux usées
• Nombre d'établissements dans la filière du traitement de l'eau
• Effectifs de la filière
• Répartition du financement des services de gestion des eaux usées
• Investissements des entreprises de l'eau dans le cadre de leur délégation
• Evolution du financement de la dépense nationale de gestion des eaux usées
• Répartition des services d'eau potable par opérateurs
• Répartition des services d'assainissement collectif par opérateurs
• Répartition du prix total entre charges directes des services et taxes/redevances