Key Takeaways

• Watercare is deploying 5,000 smart sewer level monitors across Auckland to enhance wastewater management.
• The technology uses edge intelligence for real-time monitoring and response to issues, reducing reliance on cloud systems.
• This initiative aims to lower environmental risks and operational costs while improving infrastructure resilience.

Advanced Monitoring for Wastewater Systems

Watercare is implementing an innovative solution by deploying 5,000 sewer level monitors throughout its Auckland wastewater network. Created in partnership with Kallipr, these devices utilize edge intelligence, enabling local data processing for prompt detection of issues such as blockages and pipe failures.

This initiative marks a significant shift from traditional, cloud-dependent systems. According to Dave Moore, Smart Systems Manager at Watercare, moving processing “out to the edge” enhances responsiveness, reduces communication clutter, and increases confidence in handling events effectively. The local processing aims to decrease communication overheads, extend sensor lifespans, and detect network issues earlier, thereby minimizing the risk of sewage spills and their financial and environmental repercussions.

The imaging sensors are integral to Watercare’s broader Smart Network Programme, valued at NZD $12 million, which aims to integrate advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence into their water infrastructure. Sensors are strategically placed citywide, especially in flood-prone areas like Wairau. These sensors, located beneath manhole covers, autonomously monitor sewer conditions and adjust their data-gathering frequency in response to abnormalities detected via radar and TinyML algorithms. Their long-lasting batteries enable prolonged deployments without frequent maintenance.

Gerhard Loots, CEO of Kallipr, emphasized the transformational potential for the utility sector. He stated that while many utilities focus on data collection, the future lies in creating intelligence at the field level. Watercare’s initiative exemplifies a shift from data-heavy, cloud-dependent systems to more agile, efficient models, setting a precedent for others in the industry.

The core of this deployment involves Kallipr’s Spectra radar sensors, which are designed to endure harsh sewer conditions, including corrosive gases and potential animal interference. These sensors record data every 15 minutes but can increase activity during overflow threats. They utilize low-power LTE networks, including NB-IoT and Cat-M1 standards, to relay information, and their dual SIM capability ensures stable connectivity in challenging underground environments.

Device management is streamlined through the Kallipr Kloud Fleet platform, built on Microsoft Azure, enabling remote oversight of the sensor units. The edge-based technology reduces bandwidth needs, energy usage, and cloud load, leading to lower operational costs and improved environmental outcomes. Each avoided sewage spill minimizes contamination risks and reduces unnecessary trips to field sites, ultimately curbing emissions.

The rollout in Auckland aligns with a global trend toward decentralized utility management. Watercare’s strategy illustrates a commitment to enhancing efficiency, responsiveness, and the long-term adaptability of critical infrastructure systems.

The content above is a summary. For more details, see the source article.