Test bed for resilient and smart drinking water networks

Purpose and goal

In Sweden, the needs to renew water pipes are far greater than the reinvestments, which means that the risk of failures is increased. Breakdowns and control failures cause big impact on both society and business. In this project we have evaluated the conditions for creating a test bed in the real user environment at several locations in Sweden, for tests of new smart technology. The result shows that the planned test bed will allow for improved monitoring and control and new solutions can be tested in conjunction between industry and water utilities.

Expected results and effects

The planning of the project shows that the test bed gives water utilities the opportunity to more efficient planning and operation of their utility, more effective communication with consumers, an organization that effectively can absorb innovations and development of the procurement of new innovations. The industry will be able to develop products that directly respond to the needs and thereby contribute to benefits, innovation and large-scale sales. The society benefits are a resilient drinking water supply system and increased sustainable innovation.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was conducted with a state-of-the art analysis that determined the position of the test bed. A complete partner constellation has been developed, the needs and execution of the test bed have been analysed, business model has been developed, a gender equality and diversity plan has been developed and the future phase (s) implementation has been planned. The implementation has shown a great interest, including workshops with more than 40 participants from large and small companies, water utilities and an association organisation.