​​Stellenbosch University (SU) is embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and contributing to the environment through the installation of smart electronic water meters in academic and non-academic buildings.

The implementation of electronic water meters has resulted in SU saving approximately R326 200 and 9 320 kl of water in a five-month period from 12 February to 6 March 2019.

According to Johann Bierman from Property Services, approximately 600 smart electronic meters have been installed across the four SU campuses to ensure five-minute monitoring intervals 24/7, 365 days a year.

“Advancements in the 4IR have allowed the SU Facilities Management team to improve effective utility management for SU to be a safer, cleaner, more affordable higher education institution in South Africa," says Bierman.

Bierman adds that in the past, water and electricity consumption was measured for billing purposes, but the 4IR is rapidly changing industries, enabling organisations to capture, access and analyse big data through artificial intelligence (AI).

The new monitoring software allows for real-time monitoring and capturing of consumption data, while the data viewed on a dashboard platform enables a quick response from plumbers at Facilities Management to deal with leaks in no time.

“The information on the software is empowered by linking locations with automated alerts and reports that action interventions rapidly," he says.

According to Bierman, automatically generated reports and alerts allow SU to detect faults or indicate saving opportunities, and soon after that, they follow with monitoring interventions. Bierman says the recent interventions have resulted in significant monetary saving and minimised the impact on the environment.

“Our findings indicate that SU has found its smart metering system valuable in assisting with efficient utility management," says Bierman.

SU has recorded an annual improvement in water consumption and despite a growth in the number of students and tariff increases, the institution has managed to save both water and money in this regard.

Bierman says most leakages on campus are due to old plumbing infrastructure. He says the core energy objectives of SU are to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and the transition to renewable energy sources.

The early identification of high water usage allows for effective implementation of appropriate interventions.