Securing every drop: Hunter Water embraces the challenge of finding and fixing leaks to enhance network efficiency

Hunter Water, in its continued effort to evolve the way it delivers services to the region, is rolling out a range of new leak detection technologies. Reducing leakage from our water system is essential for ensuring water security for the region.

Hunter Water Managing Director, Darren Cleary, says detecting and fixing leaks is a key priority for Hunter Water, with recent initiatives achieving a 27% reduction in leakage across the organisation's 5000-kilometre network of water pipes.

"Finding and fixing hidden leaks and predicting water main breaks can be a challenge across our broad and complex network of pipes, but our investment in new technology and innovation is assisting our teams to work efficiently and effectively.

“We’ve made significant strides in reducing leakage which aligns with our strategic objectives and reflects our dedication to meeting regulatory standards, engaging with our community, and embracing innovative solutions,” Mr Cleary said.

Hunter Water is trialling the implementation of new digital meters for customers. This involves the use of wireless communication devices that offer real-time insights into water consumption helping to detect leaks along with providing customer information on their water consumption. We are also significantly increasing the number of flowmeters and monitoring in our network. These devices, working alongside the digital meters will enable swifter identification of leaks in the water network.

Mr Cleary says these programs, working in parallel with a new partnership with the University of Adelaide, allow for a multifaceted approach to the complex challenge of detecting leaks.

“We have partnered with the University of Adelaide to trial their advanced leak detection system. This system uses cutting-edge machine learning models to detect and locate leaks by analysing vibrations. The trial is showing great success, already identifying six leaks across our network,” Mr Cleary said.

Some of the other initiatives from Hunter Water's leakage reduction program include:

• Rehabilitating and replacing essential aging infrastructure, such as reservoirs and trunk mains, to prevent leaks and ensure the network continues to operate reliably.

• Adding pressure-reducing valves in areas with high pressure. This reduces the number of leaks in the network, helps infrastructure last longer, and improves water efficiency for our customers.

"Reducing losses within our network is essential to our business and our multifaceted and evolving program underscores our dedication to water conservation and optimising network performance,” Mr Cleary said.

"The Lower Hunter Water Security Plan describes Hunter Water's role in making the most of its existing water sources and ensuring water security for the region. Identifying and reducing leakage play a significant role in achieving this," Mr Cleary said.