The Road to Transformation
By leveraging smart water tools, Texas Water Utilities achieved improvements in efficiency, cost savings and sustainability across north Texas. While the utility initially relied on automatic meter reading (AMR) technology, this drive-by data collection system struggled in rugged and remote areas, leading to inconsistent readings and frequent missed signals. With AMR, water loss and nonrevenue water—water pumped but never billed—remained stubbornly high, draining both resources and revenue.
The transition to cellular advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) marked a turning point for the utility. AMI uses cellular connectivity to transmit real-time data, eliminating the need for drive-by readings. With continuous, accurate data collection and remote monitoring of water flow and pressure levels, the utility could now identify high flows and potential leaks before they became costly issues.
The benefits were immediate. In one rocky, cliffside community, the utility reduced nonrevenue water from 92% to 38%. Despite the potential for water loss when pumping hundreds of thousands of gallons in a day, AMI allowed the utility to pinpoint sources of leakage that would have been nearly impossible to detect through traditional means, enabling them to make repairs and save precious water resources.
Recently, the utility integrated additional leak detection and pressure monitoring devices—custom fit and deployed for these applications—that provide enhanced pressure monitoring and visualization tools, allowing for quick identification and resolution of potential issues. Trend reporting and alarms help workers interpret data easily. Data visualizations also allow workers to communicate performance metrics and improvements to community stakeholders, helping them understand the benefits of the investment in real terms.
Beyond Leak Detection: Comprehensive System Optimization
After the switch to AMI, Texas Water Utilities segmented water systems into district metering areas for precise flow monitoring. This approach has not only reduced nonrevenue water but also helps to anticipate pipeline failures and optimize pressure levels—which reduces downtime for users.
Predictive maintenance strategies have also been implemented. By monitoring water flow and pressure, the utility developed models to anticipate pipeline wear and proactively address issues before they led to major failures. Reduced wear and tear from unexpected failures has saved the utility operational costs, conserving both time and materials.
Enhancing Accuracy & Environmental Impact
The switch to AMI has also helped the utility streamline billing practices and enhance accuracy. With the previous system, manual data entry left room for human error, but with AMI, this risk factor has been reduced. With real-time data at their fingertips, the utility’s team can quickly address concerns about water bills, leaks and usage trends, leading to fewer user complaints.
Fuel savings were another win. With the system’s remote monitoring capabilities, the utility has drastically cut back on field truck mileage. Fewer trucks on the road not only saves on fuel and maintenance but also reduces the utility’s environmental footprint.
Workforce Transformation & Retention
Technology can often raise concerns about job security, but in this case, staff were instead redeployed into new roles. Meter readers who previously traveled to collect data were transitioned to roles that required technical expertise and critical thinking, such as operations and system monitoring, and employees were given support via training.
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