Water scarcity is an ever-present challenge, particularly in regional and water-stressed communities. In these areas, water losses sometimes range from 30-50 per cent, with alarming per capita usage figures of 500-1,000 litres per day (L/p.d).
The same goes for large private sites such as university campuses, shopping centres, retirement villages, or large industrial complexes. These venues and sites lack comprehensive water monitoring, and as a result, they often suffer from significant water and financial losses that they may not even be aware of.
This waste is unsustainable. Yet, traditional methods to address this are prohibitively expensive, demanding more resources than many regions can afford. What if we could reverse these trends without breaking the bank? The answer lies in embracing a pragmatic, smart, and scalable approach through IoT (Internet of Things) technologies and cloud-based platforms.
The Power of IoT and Cloud in Water Management
Introducing IoT and cloud-based technologies marks a pivotal shift in managing water resources. These innovations enable real-time data collection. They offer valuable insights that can drastically improve water-use efficiency. In fact, by strategically deploying IoT-enabled smart meters in just 15-20 per cent of key locations, utilities and large estates can achieve 80 per cent of the benefits with only 20 per cent of the cost. This focused approach, known as “Focus Metering,” allows utilities and large estates to monitor consumption patterns, address inefficiencies, and significantly reduce non-revenue water (NRW).
The modularity of IoT systems is key to this success. These systems can be built incrementally, expanding over time without necessitating costly overhauls. Utilities and large estates can begin by installing smart meters in areas where the return on investment (ROI) is high-, such as places due for meter replacement or where water demand is especially high. Over time, additional components such as pressure monitoring tools and leak detection devices can be integrated to create a comprehensive water management system. This flexibility ensures every dollar invested today contributes to future improvements.
A Practical Approach for Remote Communities
This incremental strategy offers a practical pathway to water sustainability for regional communities and large estates, where infrastructure costs are higher and resources are limited. Rather than pursuing an idealized, one-size-fits-all solution, adopting a pragmatic mindset focused on gradual improvements can lead to significant results. This approach allows utilities and large estates to learn as they go, refining their strategies, aligning internal capacities, and adjusting to their unique challenges.
Communities and site tenants benefit from reduced water bills, early leak detection, and more accurate metering, while utilities and large estates gain insights into operational efficiencies that can be scaled. This reduces water losses and strengthens the case for future investments.
Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Water Future
Water management must evolve in today’s world, where every drop counts. IoT and cloud technologies present a pragmatic, cost-effective solution for regional communities and large estates, empowering them to take control of their water resources. By starting small and scaling wisely, utilities and large estates can make a meaningful impact on water conservation and build a sustainable future for generations to come.
