Challenge
The council, responsible for providing water services to a large population, recognised the need to update its outdated Water Loss Management Plan (WLMP). The existing plan needs strategic direction and actionable recommendations to optimise its water network efficiency and reduce non-revenue water (NRW) volumes.
Solution
Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a thorough review of the council’s outdated water loss management practices and develop a comprehensive tactical plan. The project encompassed:
- Data Review and Water Balance Calculations: Aqua Analytics analysed recent water supply data to update the water balance calculation for the entire system and its sub-zones. This involved addressing data discrepancies or assumptions that could be field-validated for improved accuracy.
- Prioritised Action Plan: A list of sub-zone investigations and tasks was developed, including recommendations for improved metering, leak detection, real-time IoT monitoring, and data aggregation (and ultimately using a smart water software platform). This action plan focused on areas where the council could significantly reduce water loss.
- Real-Time Water Balance Assessment: Aqua Analytics explored opportunities to leverage existing data for real-time water balance monitoring, enabling the council to identify and respond to water loss issues proactively.
- Metering and Monitoring Recommendations: Aqua Analytics identified specific sites where additional metering and monitoring could enhance network intelligence and facilitate targeted NRW investigations.
- Field Scoping and Feasibility Assessment: A detailed field scoping exercise was conducted at the identified sites, evaluating accessibility, power supply options, communication methods, and ease of installation for the recommended metering and monitoring equipment.
Deliverables
- Updated Water Balance Calculations: Accurate and up-to-date water balance calculations for the entire system and individual sub-zones, providing a clear picture of current water loss levels.
- Tactical Water Loss Management Plan: A comprehensive plan outlining prioritised actions, timelines, and resource requirements for reducing NRW in the short and medium term.
- Feasibility Assessment Report: A detailed report assessing the feasibility of implementing additional metering and monitoring at the identified sites.
Results
- Strategic Roadmap for NRW Reduction: The council received a tactical plan with actionable recommendations that served as a roadmap for achieving their water loss reduction goals.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The updated water balance calculations and real-time monitoring recommendations empowered the council to make data-driven network improvements and NRW management decisions.
- Enhanced Network Efficiency: Implementing the recommended actions will improve network efficiency, reduce water loss, and save on costs.
Client Benefits
- Proactive Water Loss Management: The tactical plan enabled the council to manage water loss proactively rather than reacting to crises.
- Optimised Resource Allocation: Prioritising actions ensured that resources were allocated to the most impactful areas for NRW reduction.
- Sustainable Practices: The council is committed to sustainable water management practices and environmental stewardship by reducing water loss.
Conclusion
Aqua Analytics’ consulting expertise in water loss management and data analysis was pivotal in assisting the council. By providing a comprehensive tactical plan, Aqua Analytics empowered the council to address their water loss challenges effectively, leading to a more resilient and sustainable water system for their community. The prioritised list of actions and full budgetary scope will allow the council to go directly to the market to procure goods and services to implement their water loss plan in the coming years. This includes smart meters, smart devices, trunk main leak detection, and active leak detection services.
