Mackay Regional Council has recently undertaken a trial of new technology that allows water meters to be read in real time.
The technology called ‘Taggle’ allows meters to be read automatically though a radio frequency network which uploads the data directly into Council’s system as often as every hour.
Water and Wastewater Portfolio Councillor Deirdre Comerford said the results received from the trial have proven that the technology is a real winner.
“The trial results have been extremely positive with 99 per cent of the devices being able to be read within a two kilometre radius – this is better than expected,” she said.
“Due to the success, we have decided to extend the trial to another 500 homes, and are encouraging those who are selected to be a part of the trial to be actively involved.”
Councillor Comerford said as part of the second trial customers will be able to view and monitor their real time consumption data online, or via their phone.
“The technology enables residents to login to the system via their computer or phone and view your daily consumption data in real time, which is great for monitoring their water use as well as identifying leaks,” she said.
The monitoring devices will also assist Council with identifying leaks in the network that often go unnoticed until the meters are read on the usual six monthly basis.
Councillor Comerford said the access to real time data means they can better monitor their network and identify and fix leaks as they happen.
“This means overall consumption will be reduced and system upgrades will be less frequent resulting in less overall capital expenditure.”
Councillor Comerford said a more frequent billing period for customers is also being considered by Council.
“It is expected that the technology will allow a more frequent billing period than the current twice yearly, making it easier for residents to manage payments.”
For further details contact Mackay Regional Council on 1300 622 529.
