Chennai: Metrowater will install one lakh smart water meters, integrated with a billing system, to monitor water usage in commercial buildings across city. In first phase, the meters will be installed for bulk consumers, including TNHB, and the readings will be sent to consumers’ phones every month. An estimated 5 crore has been allocated for the initiative, and installation of these meters is expected to generate additional revenue for the department.
Until now, Metrowater had installed mechanical meters with automated meter reading (AMR) in residential and commercial buildings. However, these meters show variation in readings and even register consumption when air passes through or when the water returns. Residential buildings were charged a flat rate of 80, with no proper accountability for both residential and commercial usage. To address this issue, the smart meters will soon be installed, targeting commercial and high-rise buildings in the first phase.
Metrowater chief engineer O Parveez said, “Smart meters will accurately measure water consumption, leading to better revenue collection. At present, we are supplying 1,100 MLD. We want to adopt a metering system similar to that of Tangedco. It will also help prevent water wastage and ensure accountability in water usage.” The installation charges and tariff will be announced later, officials said.
Installation of smart meters is also expected to raise awareness among consumers about efficient water usage. Of the 14 lakh consumers who pay tax, only 8 lakh pay water charges now. The board plans to increase the number of paying consumers, with charges applicable for buildings above 500 sqft. The tender will be floated in May, and the work order is expected to be issued within two months after that. Metrowater public relations officer M Vetrichelvan said the board already has a list of bulk consumers, and notices will be issued in advance.