Smart Metering: Working proactively with non-revenue water

A vivid technology leap in areas such as automated meter reading (AMR) and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) systems for remote meter reading and monitoring, have made water meters a prime focus in defining the distribution network for utilities. In the past decades, utilities have recognised the importance of a robust metering system to meet operational efficiency, revenue management and customer services expectations. One of the common challenges faced by water utilities across the globe is non-revenue water, most likely as a consequence of increased urbanisation, higher demand, increased prices and ageing distribution networks.
Kamstrup, one of the world's leading manufacturers and suppliers of intelligent energy and water metering solutions, explains how smart metering is not only helping water utilities meet their operational and revenue challenges but also delivers insights into combating the problem of non-revenue water.
What makes static metering a cost-effective mechanism for utilities to reduce operational costs and maximise revenues? 
Unlike mechanical meters, static meters with ultrasonic technology have no moving parts and deliver pin-point accuracy, hence they are maintenance-free. Remote reading and full data overview help utilities bill the consumers precisely and handle customer service more efficiently. Additionally, there is a faster return on investment with ultrasonic metering as compared to traditional metering technologies because the former has little effect on water pressure, therefore capturing more flow for more revenue and reduce overhead losses. 
Kamstrup's MID-approved ultrasonic water meters can measure water flow as low as 2.5 litres per hour, which helps utilities optimise their operations in the distribution network. Furthermore, less energy is required to achieve acceptable water pressure at customer premises, which means less pumping and ultimately lower electricity bills. In the long run, it helps achieve more accurate infrastructure design and reduce capital costs.
How are AMR and AMI technologies helpful in reducing non-revenue water for utilities?
Non-Revenue Water (NRW) is an internationally known term that can be defined as water that is pumped into the distribution network, but not invoiced, so it does not generate revenue for the utility. 
In other words, NRW is the difference between produced water and billed water. With smart metering, the utility acquires knowledge about their mains, in addition to the operational status at the consumers' residences and in the distribution network, which enables them to make well-informed decisions about the most efficient way of working with the mains and with asset management. The remote reading can be carried out automatically and will therefore keep the utility updated on the situation in the mains. Kamstrup smart meters work with a wide range of communication types. The meters are equipped with smart alarms detecting leak, burst, dryness, reverse flow and tamper, thereby enabling utilities to be proactive before any damage occurs and quickly identify, troubleshoot and resolve field issues.
There are a variety of automated meter reading and smart metering systems available, stretching from handheld devices to long distance networks - cabled or wireless - together with user-friendly data management programmes. Utilities can make use of a vast array of options when designing a smart metering infrastructure. However, as no solution fits all needs, they each represent a trade-off between desired features and undesired consequences.