The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources will participate in the Global Cities Team Challenge: Smart Cities Pilot Project by applying internet technology to water meters.
Once installed, the smart meter technology will track water as it moves through the system sending data back in real time to DWR officials indicating leaks in the system to help prevent loss of water.
"During the technology test, the data from the Smart Cities Pilot Project may allow customers in the pilot study the ability to see their water use in real time, helping them manage their use and identify leaks or running toilets at their homes," said Rick Reagan, Deputy Director of Business Services.
"This can help the customer save money as well as conserve water."
Last week, Gwinnett County Commissioners approved an agreement with CH2M Hill Engineers Inc. to manage the project that includes a partnership with AT&T (wireless connectivity) and QualComm (communication chips in meters).
The Global Cities Team Challenge: Smart Cities Pilot Project is a way for municipalities to bring groundbreaking applications of "smart" internet technology across a number of industrial sectors, including water.
The "smart meters" that will be used in the pilot are connected to the internet that will allow DWR to evaluate how this technology can be employed to not only provide enhanced service to customers, but also allow DWR to continue being a good steward of the environment and plan for the future.
There is no capital investment for the County, and no obligation for further implementation at the end of the pilot project.
Gwinnett County is currently in the process of identifying neighborhoods where the pilot could be conducted.
