Implementation of Intelligent Water Networks Solutions - Experiences in Australia

Intelligent Water Network (IWN) systems integrate time-series information collected from a water network (flow, pressure, storage level, customer demand, and water quality) and apply analytics to provide insights into network behaviour and optimise operations, strategy, planning and investment.

They require adequate network data (quantity, location, type, accuracy, polling frequency, transmission frequency and system reliability) to reliably and consistently process information, apply algorithms, enable a utility to apply insights, increase understanding of network behaviours, reduce losses and optimise operations.

IWN technologies, features and services are diverse. Many IWN providers offer a suite of products and services that together can provide a comprehensive solution. Technologies continue to rapidly evolve with no two products offering an identical solution.

Initially developed to identify when leaks or bursts are occurring, IWN solutions are becoming more sophisticated. In addition to identifying leaks and bursts, they are being used to identify changes in performance of pump stations, pressure reduction valves or bulk flow meters in real time. They can verify that repairs and changes in network operation have been properly completed, optimise asset management programs, monitor water quality and identify gradual changes in network performance.

Where flow meters are implemented for large customers, IWN solutions can be used to identify behaviours from large customers that adversely impact the network and identify post-meter customer leakage. This paper summarises the evolution of IWN technologies from simple, static and reactive systems to comprehensive event management solutions for water utilities.

It is acknowledged that eventually IWN technologies will become widely adopted in the industry; however they remain subject to economic considerations and business objectives. Jacobs has assisted utilities going through this process.

Some early preparation for future IWN implementation can be integrated into ‘business as usual’ activities. This paper provides a summary of insights gained while supporting utilities through integration of IWN technologies, including:

• Streamline asset IDs between systems during planned upgrades of SCADA, GIS, ERP /P and network monitoring infrastructure;
• Prioritise technology for upgrades subject to obsolete technologies (closure of 2G network); and
• Identify utility objectives for implementing IWN technologies.
• The paper also presents a summary of findings from three water utilities in Australia that have implemented the TaKaDu IWN technology, including:
• Management pressure management programs through IWN monitoring;
• Quantifying benefits, costs and establishing performance KPIs for establishment of an IWN solution;
• Automation of reporting processes for water balance calculations and other business metrics;
• Tracking of unauthorised consumption;
• Optimisation of maintenance strategies: from reactive to scheduling maintenance when changes in behaviours observed;
• Verification of proper resolution of normal network operation after network maintenance or repair requiring implementation of contingency plans; and
• Return on investment from TaKaDu implementation.