The Challenge
Yarra Valley Water, responsible for providing water and sanitation services to over 2 million people, sought to enhance their proactive approach to leak detection and water loss reduction. Their extensive network, spanning 4,000 square kilometres and over 10,000 kilometres of water mains, required a comprehensive and efficient solution to effectively manage and mitigate water loss across such a vast area.
Our Solution
In 2021, Yarra Valley Water partnered with Aqua Analytics, a leading water network intelligence solutions provider, to tackle this challenge. The initial three-year contract focused on several key areas:
- Proactive Leak Detection: Aqua Analytics utilised a range of acoustic leak detection equipment, sensors, and data analytics to identify leaks across the entire network efficiently.
- Real-Time Network Monitoring: A real-time system was implemented to monitor the network, enabling rapid response to potential leaks and anomalies.
- Integrated Reporting: A customised field asset management system was integrated with Yarra Valley Water's existing systems, streamlining the reporting and repair process. This integrated approach significantly assisted with the Active Leak Detection Repair Time Uplift Project.
The Results
Over the initial three-year period and the subsequent two-year extension, Aqua Analytics’ solution has delivered significant benefits to Yarra Valley Water:
- Substantial Reduction in Non-Revenue Water: The partnership has considerably decreased water loss, contributing to resource conservation and cost savings.
- Optimised Field Operations: Aqua Analytics' expertise and technology have enabled Yarra Valley Water to streamline leak detection and repair processes, maximising efficiency.
- Improved Customer Satisfaction: By ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply, the partnership indirectly contributes to the satisfaction of Yarra Valley Water's customers.
- Innovation for Reactive Works: Aqua Analytics designed a custom solution for Yarra Valley Water's internal leak detection teams, providing access to industry-leading technology with support from the Aqua Analytics team.
Partnership Extension
Based on the success of the initial collaboration, Yarra Valley Water extended the contract with Aqua Analytics for an additional two years through mid-2026. This extension is a testament to the value and effectiveness of Aqua Analytics’s services.
Conclusion
The ongoing partnership between Yarra Valley Water and Aqua Analytics exemplifies a commitment to innovation and sustainability in the water industry. By proactively addressing water loss, they have conserved a vital resource and ensured the continued reliability and affordability of water services for millions of Victorians. This collaboration is a model for other water utilities seeking to optimise their network management and achieve long-term water sustainability.
