Sensus, a communications provider for the utilities industry, reports that it has successfully delivered 100 percent connectivity to smart water meters located underground as part of a long range radio technology trial in Ballincollig, Co.Cork, Ireland.
The introduction of smart water meters in Ireland will help Irish Water (a subsidiary of Bord Gáis) deliver efficiencies through the use of metering and network data. It also aims to help consumers manage their own water consumption, reducing demand and, ultimately, impact on the environment. Smart water meters can also help with the early detection of customer side leakages.
Neil Adams, Business Development Manager with Sensus, said: “We’re keen to demonstrate that proven solutions exist that address the water management challenges Ireland is currently facing. We’ve worked with over 200 utilities throughout the world, supporting them in similar initiatives.”
The trial was implemented in partnership with KTL Ltd, a local network operator, and Morrison Utility Services Ireland Ltd, who offer a range of utility services including meter installation. Adams continued; “The insight and intelligence that comes from the data generated by smart meters is critical. It gives water utilities greater visibility of their networks and provides information that can then help them manage their networks more efficiently.”
As part of the GB SmartReach consortium, Sensus has also supported Thames Water demonstrating the suitability of a long‐range radio communications networks for connecting smart water meters for entire district meter areas.
Frank Gogarty, Director, IPL Group, who specialise in the supply of water pipeline fittings in Ireland said; “Currently an average 41 percent of water is unaccounted for in Ireland due to leakages and unbilled usage. This trial has demonstrated that technologies exist that can make this a thing of the past.”
Water charges will start to be introduced to consumers in Ireland in 2014. The introduction of smart water meters will enable homes and businesses to better manage their own consumption. Ireland is driving forward with water, gas and electricity smart metering programmes. If a communications infrastructure was chosen that could support all three utilities there would be significant synergies and cost savings.
