Most water utilities have made significant strides in deploying IT and other technologies to enable effective and efficient operation of water networks. There is also an expectation that gains can be made by more use of real time information collation, manipulation and analysis.
The profile of technologies that can use real-time information has been raised by initiatives such as Project Neptune; research to maximise the use of data and modelling for managing networks. Additionally, products and services offered by companies such as i2O Water and TaKaDu are proving that real benefit can be gained by enlightened use of real time data. There is also the concept of “Smart Water Networks” and the launch of the Smart Water Networks Forum (SWAN).
Together with 8 water utilities, WRc has just started a Portfolio collaborative research project entitled “Towards Intelligent Networks”. This work will explore current activities in the area by undertaking a comprehensive review of current and emerging technologies and practices. Based on this analysis, a strategic and technology-based roadmap will be developed to enable utilities to effectively plan for the implementation of ‘intelligent’ water network management.
The project will deliver a better understanding of the business requirements and opportunities, the solution options and their effectiveness and an appreciation of the costs, benefits and critical success factors.
For further information contact Mark Kowalski at mark.kowalski@wrcplc.co.uk or 01793 865080.