Itron is deploying its wireless fixed network system water metering solution in the town of Port Douglas, in Far North Queensland, Australia. The current deal follows last year’s full-scale deployment of the same system in the city of Kalgoorlie. The projected six-month project is implementing a system that will help the Cairns Regional Council track water consumption and optimize supply according to demand.
A popular tourist destination, usage rates in Port Douglas are high so water demand management has become an increasingly important priority for the Cairns Regional Council. Itron’s smart metering infrastructure solution enables the utility to monitor consumption in real-time, resulting in improved water resource management.
Sheena Trumble, Itron Australia’s general manager, notes, “Ultimately, our solution is scalable and will allow the town to maintain its existing infrastructure today, while positioning it for future growth. We are pleased to equip our customer with a system to help manage fluctuating water demand and implement conservation programs.”
Bruce Gardiner, Cairns Water, Cairns Regional Council general manager adds: “Advanced metering technology will enable us to collect data remotely rather than sending a meter reader to collect information. It makes our job much easier. This initial project is part of a larger water management effort, partially funded by the Australian Commonwealth Government’s Water for the Future and National Water Security for Cities and Towns programs. Our vision is to better understand water usage within the area, increase the number of proactive asset management systems implemented across the region, and reduce demand on current water sources. We also believe providing better information to our customers will assist in reducing water loss and create a more sustainable water supply.”