Water loss is a significant challenge for utilities, impacting operational efficiency and sustainability. To effectively manage water loss, utilities need to understand its root causes. In this case study, we delve into the analysis of data discrepancies in a village in the North East and emphasize the importance of evaluating meter programming, shipping configurations, and billing system inconsistencies. By distinguishing between water loss caused by data inaccuracies or actual distribution system issues, utilities can implement strategies for increased efficiency and reduced waste.
Data Analysis Findings
To assess water loss in the Utility, Raybern Consulting conducted interviews with staff and analyzed data from the billing system and the AMI System.
During the analysis, a comparison of consumption reports and the list of active accounts revealed a discrepancy in the number of accounts. This suggests that the consumption reports may not capture the usage for all accounts receiving water service, thereby affecting the accuracy of the Total Water Consumed used to calculate water loss.
Our analysis also identified potential inaccuracies in the billing system data. These include inconsistent application of multipliers and meter sizing, irregular meter programming and shipping configurations, and inconsistent handling of meter rollovers. Notably, some accounts with large meters showed unusually low consumption, raising suspicions.
Further investigation revealed additional discrepancies, such as accounts omitted from the consumption reports, mismatched meter and transmitter IDs, suspect billing multipliers, and unusually low consumption levels.
Based on our data analysis, we conclude that the Utility’s water loss is predominantly apparent water loss caused by data omissions or inaccuracies in the billing and AMI systems. There is no evidence of widespread water theft or tampering. The key data issues identified include incomplete consumption totals, inaccurate read/consumption data due to manual corrections, inconsistent application of multipliers, and potentially incorrect meter programming and shipping configurations.
Recommendations
To effectively address water loss, the Utility should prioritize resolving the identified data issues. Raybern Consulting recommended the following:
Improve data accuracy in the billing system and the AMI system by addressing data omissions and inconsistencies.
Review and standardize the application of multipliers per meter size to ensure accurate billing.
Conduct a thorough review of meter programming and shipping configurations to ensure meters report precise water usage.
Implement regular data accuracy audits to identify and resolve any ongoing data discrepancies.
Provide training and support to Village staff to enhance their understanding of data management and accuracy.
By implementing these recommendations, the Utility can enhance its water loss calculations and gain better insights into the efficiency of its distribution system. This, in turn, will enable data-driven decision-making, operational optimization, and effective reduction of water loss.
Accurately identifying the source of water loss is crucial for utilities aiming to improve water management practices. Through our thorough data analysis, Raybern Consulting identified data discrepancies in the Utility, contributing to apparent water loss. By addressing these data issues and implementing targeted Consulting, utilities can enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure sustainable water resource management. Raybern Consulting is dedicated to assisting utilities in navigating the challenges of water loss and optimizing their operations for a more sustainable future.