Every Drop Counts: Discover Our Ecosystem for Reducing Drinking Water Loss
Together with the Flemish water companies, technology suppliers, and research institutions, AquaFlanders is developing innovative solutions to reduce drinking water loss. This is how we are working towards a more sustainable future for water. On this page, you will learn more about the project.
Innovation in Action: The Power of Collaboration
Flanders is a water-scarce region, so we need to use drinking water sparingly. Our water companies make significant efforts to minimise drinking water loss, also known as non-revenue water (NRW), in all its forms.
Our ambition is to further reduce these losses.
How do we achieve this? Through an NRW ecosystem. It fosters collaboration between water companies, technology suppliers, and research institutions, accelerating the development and practical application of solutions.
NRW Ecosystem
Faster Leak Detection with Existing Data
Our first project within the ecosystem aims to develop a tool for faster leak detection and location. Currently, we use digital techniques to identify leaks within a register zone, a small, specific area of the drinking water network. In this zone, leak finders must pinpoint the exact location, often checking dozens of kilometres of water pipes, which is time-consuming. We aim to improve this process.
We are exploring techniques to reduce leak finders' search time using existing data sources, relying on a combination of algorithms.
To ensure smooth project execution, we are collaborating with the Programme Innovative Public Procurement (PIO).
The Next Step
On 7 October, the next NRW event for technology suppliers and research institutions will take place. During the event we will provide more details on the PIO project:
- Identify potential data sources from water companies, both internal and external.
- Discuss how to facilitate access to external data sources.
- Explain critical performance indicators with a focus on reducing leak search times.
- Gather input from attending suppliers.
So, mark 7 October on your calendar.
Will You Step Aboard?
You too can be part of the NRW ecosystem.
- Co-create for More Impact: design and develop innovative algorithms using both direct and indirect data. These algorithms not only reduce the share of Non-Revenue Water but also create new business opportunities for all parties involved.
- Exchange Knowledge: collaborate with water industry experts, researchers, and tech pioneers to shape the future of leak detection and localisation.
- Make Our Water Sector More Sustainable:
contribute to more efficient water management, a future-proof drinking water supply, and budget-neutral solutions.
Join the NRW Ecosystem
Interested? Let us know via nrwecosystem@dewatergroep.be.
The NRW ecosystem is open to professionals in the water sector, researchers, technology companies, and consultants with expertise in data-driven solutions and/or solutions to reduce water losses.
