Digital Metering Joint Program
City West Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water are working together to explore whether upgrading Melbourne’s existing meter fleet to digital water meters will provide value to customers, the community and our utilities.
What are digital water meters?
Digital water meters help identify leaks, within the customer’s property and in our water network, so they can be fixed quickly, saving water and money.
Digital water meters have the potential to provide customers with timely information on their water usage and bill so they can make informed choices about their water consumption and avoid surprises.
What work is being done as part of the Digital Metering Joint Program?
The three Metropolitan Melbourne water utilities are working towards making a decision on how and when an upgrade to the meter fleet could occur. There is a lot of work to do before we can make a decision.
Hear from our Managing Director, Pat McCafferty, on the benefits digital water meters can have for customers, as well as helping to conserve water.
Customer research
The water utilities are working together to understand the views of our customers in relation to the future of water meters and the benefits they could receive. Our research shows two-thirds of customers support upgrading our network to digital meters to help both the water utilities and customers manage our water more sustainably. We are committed to continuing to listen to our customers to guide our decisions.
Technology trials
As part of the program we are trialling new technologies in metering and communications, and testing the market.
Financial implications
We’re working to understand the financial implications of digital meters.
Thorough analysis
By combining the experience and technical capabilities of the three metropolitan Melbourne water utilities, together with expert advice and checks, we will be able to thoroughly assess if digital water meters are viable and deliver benefits to our customers, the community and the utilities.
Ultimately, in order to upgrade to digital meters the case for digital meters needs to stack-up financially and support is required from:
- customers
- Victorian Government
- Essential Services Commission (independent industry regulator for the water utilities)
Digital water meter trial now underway
Read about our trial of digital water meters in Vermont South.