Water management in regional areas and large estates such as university campuses, shopping centres retirement villages or large industrial complexes is plagued by inefficiencies, leading to high water losses and unsustainable usage rates. Yet, attempts to modernise these systems are often hindered by prohibitive costs and logistical challenges.
However, smart metering, coupled with IoT and cloud-based solutions, offers a way forward—one that is scalable, affordable, and effective.
Focus Metering: Achieving Maximum Results with Minimal Investment
One of the greatest misconceptions about smart metering is the belief that for it to be effective, all meters in an area must be digitized. This “all or nothing” mindset can be a barrier to entry, as fully digitizing a water system can be both costly and time-consuming. Instead, the concept of “Focus Metering” offers a more flexible, scalable approach. By strategically installing smart meters in just 15-20 per cent of the network, utilities and large estates can capture accurate data and achieve 80 per cent of the benefits with only 20 per cent of the cost.
This method is not just financially prudent but also operationally efficient. Through a combination of smart meters, pressure monitoring, and active leak detection, utilities and large estates can quickly identify high-water-use areas, address inefficiencies, and make data-driven decisions. The beauty of this modular approach is that it grows with the needs of the site. As resources allow, the system can expand to cover more areas without the need for costly overhauls.
Smart Technology Meets Practicality
The modular architecture of IoT-based smart metering allows utilities and large estates to build a digital water management system over time. Every investment in smart metering contributes to long-term goals. It’s a learning-by-doing approach that minimises risk while maximising benefits. For example, electronic meters increase reading accuracy, providing more reliable data for decision-making and eliminating the need for manual meter reading. This not only saves time and resources but also boosts revenue by up to 4 per cent.
Utilities and large estates that embrace smart metering also benefit from improved relationships with their customers or tenants. Smart meters give consumers or tenants real-time access to their water usage data, allowing them to take corrective actions, such as fixing leaks, before they become costly. The result? Reduced water bills, fewer complaints, and increased customer or tenant trust.
Conclusion: A Path to Smarter, Sustainable Water Use
The future of water management lies in the integration of smart technology with pragmatic, results-driven strategies. Focus Metering offers a solution that is both cost-effective and scalable, making it particularly valuable for regional communities and large estates where resources are limited. With each incremental improvement, utilities and large estates move closer to achieving a fully digitized, efficient, and sustainable water management system. The key is to start small, think big, and let technology do the rest.
For more information, visit watergroup.com.au and utilios.io
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