Dutch drinking water utility Brabant Water, in partnership with water technology company Xylem, claims it is creating one of Europe’s largest digital water networks, serving 2.6 million residents and businesses across North Brabant province in the south of the Netherlands.
To meet rising demand, the utility is deploying a digital twin and smart metering solutions with a view to building a more efficient, resilient water system.
Water infrastructure
As urbanisation, industrial growth, and changing weather patterns intensify pressure on water infrastructure, drinking water use in the Netherlands is projected to increase by 100 million cubic metres by 2030. To future-proof its operations, Brabant Water is digitalising its network, supporting the region’s growing communities and industries.
Brabant Water created a virtual model, or digital twin, of its 29 treatment facilities and nearly 12,000 miles of pipelines. The digital twin receives real-time data from sensors, meters, and pumping stations, giving operators continuous visibility into the network and enabling rapid detection of problems such as leaks or equipment failures. This enhanced insight improves day-to-day service reliability and long-term planning.
Powered by the digital water platform, Xylem Vue, Brabant Water reports that it can simulate network performance under various conditions – from sudden demand spikes to operational changes – on a digital replica of its network. The utility can then detect and resolve potential issues before they affect customers, minimising service disruptions.
Read more: smartcitiesworld.net
