The British company United Utilities has chosen the telecommunications company Arqiva for the deployment of more than one million smart water meters by 2030. This contract, valued at 250 million pounds, includes the installation and management of devices as well as the data communication infrastructure. This strategic project, focused in the northwest of England, aims to improve water resource management by reducing consumption and losses due to leaks. Once the meters are installed, the analysis of the collected data should enable better understanding and management of water distribution, thus helping customers save by using less water.
The strategic partnership between United Utilities and Arqiva
The British company United Utilities has recently taken a major step by choosing Arqiva to deploy an ambitious program of smart water meters, with the goal of installing more than one million of these devices before 2030. Valued at a colossal 250 million pounds, this project is not only a remarkable technological advancement but also a true paradigm shift in the sustainable management of water resources. The agreement even allows for a five-year extension, highlighting United Utilities’ commitment to long-term transformation of its infrastructure.
By establishing this network of smart meters, United Utilities aims to gather detailed information on water consumption across the northwest region of England. This includes the complete exchange of meters at business customers’ premises. This valuable data will enable improved water management, reduced consumption, and minimized losses due to leaks. In light of the growing issues of water scarcity in the UK, this project fits into a crucial modernization strategy for Arqiva, with meters already delivered by the company showing promising results.
The environmental and economic stakes of the project
The growing need to manage water resources more efficiently is an important motivation for the deployment of this program. The smart meters will provide valuable insights, allowing for the targeting of problem areas, rapid leak detection, and encouraging more responsible consumption among customers. United Utilities is not limited to this initiative but is part of a broader program that also includes significant financial support for vulnerable customers. This support of 525 million pounds reflects their commitment not only to technology but also to the community.
Investments and support from the European Investment Bank
In recent years, United Utilities has received significant financial support from the European Investment Bank, obtaining funds to improve its water networks. These investments from the EIB, totaling 2.25 billion pounds, are intended to support projects that benefit consumers, the environment, and local businesses. Additionally, a recent loan of 500 million pounds over a period of 18 years shows the ongoing support of this institution in funding sustainable development projects in the UK. Through these financial and strategic partnerships for the deployment of smart meters, United Utilities establishes itself as a proactive player in technological innovations in water management.
