Challenge
The council, responsible for providing water services to a population of over 40,000, was committed to reducing non-revenue water (NRW) losses below their current level of 20%. While recent leak detection efforts had been undertaken, the council sought a comprehensive review of their District Metered Areas (DMAs) and leakage reduction strategy to achieve further water savings.
Solution
Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a thorough assessment of the council’s water distribution network and provide actionable recommendations for improvement. The project encompassed:
- DMA Configuration Assessment: A meticulous review of existing DMA setups was performed to evaluate their effectiveness in monitoring and leak detection. This involved identifying areas lacking flow metering and recommending the establishment of new DMAs.
- DMA Suitability Analysis: The sizing and boundaries of existing DMAs were analysed to ensure accurate flow data capture and optimal leak detection. Recommendations for DMA restructuring were made to enhance monitoring efficiency.
- Leak Detection and Monitoring Strategy Review: Current methodologies, particularly Minimum Night Flow (MNF) analysis and the existing quarterly mass balance approach were assessed. Improvements and the potential for more frequent assessments were proposed to better manage water loss.
- Detailed Reporting and Recommendations: A comprehensive report outlining findings on DMA effectiveness, areas requiring additional monitoring, and the efficiency of current leak detection methods was delivered. The report also provided actionable recommendations for DMA optimisation, enhanced monitoring strategies, and improved leak detection techniques.
- Data-Driven Review Using GIS: A geographic information system (GIS) was used to collate and analyse historical asset data, maps, plans, leak locations, asset repairs, and NRW efforts implemented through the years.
Deliverables
- DMA Assessment Report: A detailed analysis of existing DMA structures with recommendations for optimisation.
- Leak Detection and Monitoring Strategy: A comprehensive report outlining enhanced leak detection and monitoring methods, focusing on MNF analysis and mass balance assessments.
Results
- Enhanced DMA Effectiveness: The council gained a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of their existing DMAs, enabling them to prioritise improvements for more accurate monitoring and leak detection.
- Strategic Roadmap for Leakage Reduction: The recommendations provided a strategic roadmap for the council to reduce water loss further, encompassing short-term and long-term actions.
- Increased Operational Efficiency: The proposed improvements to monitoring and leak detection strategies are expected to streamline operations and reduce costs associated with water loss.
Key Benefits
- Proactive Water Management: The project empowered the council to address water loss and improve resource management proactively.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: The detailed analysis and recommendations provided a solid foundation for data-driven decision-making regarding network improvements and water conservation strategies.
- Sustainable Practices: The project contributed to the council's sustainability goals and environmental stewardship by reducing water loss.
Conclusion
Aqua Analytics’ consultancy services played a pivotal role in helping the regional council optimise its water network management. The comprehensive assessment and strategic recommendations provided a clear path towards significantly reducing water loss, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable water supply for their community.
