As technology continues to reshape the water sector, utilities must weigh the benefits of digitalisation against the risks of rapid, costly transitions. It’s why water meter solutions are critical for the future of the industry.
“The water industry is changing, but that doesn’t mean throwing out everything that works. The key is to make practical improvements that align with real-world constraints, not just follow trends.”
John Comino has spent years working in the water industry and understands this challenge firsthand. His company, Strongcast, is taking a measured approach to metering infrastructure solutions, balancing innovation with practicality.
“We saw a real gap in the market where traditional solutions weren’t addressing the root causes of water loss,” Strongcast Managing Director Comino said. “We wanted to create products that actively help reduce leakage and improve system resilience.”
Water utilities must navigate a difficult path with ageing infrastructure on one side and mounting pressure to embrace digitalisation on the other. Is the industry prepared to leap from manual readings to fully integrated IoT systems? Or does a more gradual, step-by-step approach offer a more sustainable path forward?
Plugging the leaks
Non-revenue water (NRW) is a persistent problem for utilities. It’s not just about inaccurate readings; it’s about physical leaks in the system. While many metering companies focus on better accuracy, some tackle the problem at the infrastructure level.
“When you talk to metering companies, they focus on apparent water loss with accurate metrology,” Comino said. “But no one was dealing with actual water loss in small domestic settings.”
Rather than reinventing meters, Strongcast has developed complementary products designed to reduce leaks and improve overall system efficiency. Comino said that while technology plays a role, physical improvements to infrastructure are just as critical. The product line reflects the company’s commitment to practical water-metering infrastructure innovation.
Mechanical meters in a digital world
Smart meters dominate industry discussions, but the reality on the ground tells a different story. Many utilities still rely on mechanical meters, which remain a cost-effective and reliable option. This is precisely why Comino developed a completely new and separate entity known as Data Drop to support the challenges utilities face moving towards digital outcomes.
“There’s still a push for mechanical meters,” Comino said. “People throw around the term ‘smart meters’, but mechanical meters have their place. The key is finding the balance.”
For utilities, the challenge isn’t just about adopting new technology; it’s about ensuring that any investment aligns with operational needs and long-term planning. Mechanical meters with minor digital enhancements can be the most pragmatic solution.
Why a gradual transition?
Many utilities are hesitant to make the major leap from manual readings to a fully digital system. A gradual transition allows utilities to upgrade their systems at a manageable pace, ensuring that each stage delivers tangible benefits before moving on.
“We like to take a stepped strategy that doesn’t commit a utility to one technology or the other,” Comino said. “Utilities get nervous about moving from manual meter reading straight to IoT metering. It’s a huge leap, and it happens very quickly.”
Looking ahead: Finding the right fit for every utility
Australia’s water utilities are diverse, and their metering solutions must reflect that reality. Some regional councils struggle with cellular coverage, making full IoT networks impractical. Others may not have the resources to process large volumes of real-time data. In these cases, alternative solutions such as drive-by technology offer a more practical way forward.
“We want to support utilities on this stepped journey,” Comino said. “There is no one-size-fits-all solution. We want to help customers reach their needs within their limits, year on year.”
For more information, visit strongcast.com.au and datadrop.com.au
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