Usage of ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE in smart metering system for municipal water treatment plant and water distribution systems

1. Enhanced Accuracy and Real-Time Monitoring

a. Precision in Measurement

Traditional water meters are often mechanical, and their accuracy can degrade over time due to wear and tear. In contrast, smart meters—especially ultrasonic and electromagnetic types—offer higher precision and maintain accuracy over longer periods. This ensures that all water usage is measured reliably, reducing disputes and billing errors.

b. Real-Time Data Access

Smart meters continuously collect consumption data and transmit it to centralized systems. This enables near real-time visibility into water consumption at individual and aggregate levels, allowing utilities to make timely decisions regarding supply management, pressure adjustments, and network performance.

2. Reduction in Non-Revenue Water (NRW)

Non-revenue water—water that is produced but not billed due to leaks, theft, or metering inaccuracies—is a major challenge for many utilities. Smart metering helps tackle NRW in the following ways: Usage of ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE in smart metering system for municipal water treatment plant and water distribution systems

a. Leak Detection

By monitoring water flow patterns and identifying unusual spikes or continuous flows, smart meters can signal leaks either within households or in the broader network. Early detection minimizes water loss and reduces infrastructure damage.

b. Meter Tampering Alerts

Smart meters can detect and report signs of tampering or bypassing, helping utilities prevent unauthorized usage and recover lost revenues.

c. Improved Pressure Management

Real-time flow and pressure data allow utilities to optimize distribution pressures, which not only reduces leakage but also extends the life of infrastructure components.

3. Improved Billing and Revenue Collection

a. Automated Meter Reading (AMR)

Smart meters eliminate the need for manual reading, which is labor-intensive, error-prone, and costly. Automated Meter Reading ensures timely, accurate billing based on actual consumption, which enhances customer trust and utility cash flow.

b. Flexible Billing Options

With detailed consumption data, utilities can offer tiered or time-of-use billing structures that encourage conservation. Consumers may be incentivized to reduce usage during peak demand periods, helping balance supply and demand.