Real-time Metering and Leak Detection for Galveston Utilities

Challenge: Inefficient Water Monitoring and Leak Detection

The City of Galveston, a barrier island community with a population that fluctuates from approximately 50,000 residents to up to 500,000 visitors during peak events, relies entirely on imported water from the mainland. This dependency necessitates efficient water use and robust system monitoring to ensure a reliable supply. However, the city's existing water distribution network lacked real-time monitoring capabilities, hindering swift identification and management of leaks. This limitation led to:

• Increased water loss due to undetected leaks.
• Resource wastage impacting operational efficiency.
• Potential financial losses from unaccounted-for water.
• Challenges in maintaining consistent water quality and pressure.

Solution: Deployment of BlueEdge® Advanced Metering Infrastructure

To address these challenges, Galveston partnered with Badger Meter to implement the BlueEdge® AMI system. This comprehensive solution included:

• E-Series® Ultrasonic Meters: High-accuracy meters capable of detecting low flow rates, essential for identifying leaks early.
• ORION® Cellular Endpoints: Devices that transmit metering data over existing cellular networks, enabling real-time data collection without the need for dedicated infrastructure.
• BEACON® Software as a Service (SaaS): A cloud-based platform that aggregates and analyzes data from meters and sensors, providing actionable insights into water usage and system performance.
• MetriNet Multiparameter Water Quality Monitors: Sensors deployed at strategic locations to continuously monitor water quality parameters such as turbidity, pH, and disinfectant levels.
• Syrinix PIPEMINDER-ONE Devices: Pressure monitoring tools that detect transient events and pressure fluctuations, aiding in proactive maintenance.

Implementation and Results

The integration of these technologies transformed Galveston's water management by:

• Enabling real-time detection and management of leaks, significantly reducing water loss.
• Providing accurate, high-resolution data that improved operational decision-making.
• Enhancing customer service through timely and precise billing based on actual consumption.
• Improving water conservation efforts by identifying and addressing inefficiencies promptly.

By leveraging Badger Meter's BlueEdge® AMI solutions, the City of Galveston not only enhanced the resilience of its water distribution network but also set a benchmark for sustainable and efficient water management practices.