As part of government’s ongoing efforts to better track water usage, large-flow meters are being installed at reservoirs around the territory, according to the Recovery and Development Agency.
Already, 11 have been installed under a project that kicked off on May 27, and officials hope that 25 will be in place by June 25.
“The meters will allow the Water and Sewerage Department to accurately quantify the volume of water received into and distributed from each reservoir,” the RDA stated last Thursday. “The project will enhance the management of water production contracts, and data collected will support more accurate forecasting and resource allocation, helping to reduce the risk of water shortages and overuse.”
The technology can also assist in detecting system leaks, reducing water loss, minimising disruptions and promoting conservation, the RDA stated.
The project is being carried out by Control Technologies Barbados Limited, which was awarded a $281,412.82 contract on July 19 following a competitive procurement process, according to the RDA.
The company is charged with manufacturing and installing 25 meters and related accessories.
Broader programme
The meters are part of a larger “Water Optimisation Programme” the RDA is implementing on behalf of the Ministry of Communications and Works, according to RDA CEO Anthony McMaster.
“With the installation of these meters, we are laying the foundation in support of our client ministry for a more efficient, transparent and equitable water distribution network,” Mr. McMaster said. “This project supports the ministry’s long-term vision of resilient infrastructure that meets the needs of our people today and into the future.”
The Water Optimisation Programme falls under the water-and-sewerage sub-sector of the “resilient infrastructure” sector in the Recovery to Development Plan the government implemented after Hurricane Irma.
The project is also linked to Goal Four of the National Sustainable Development Plan on infrastructure, according to the RDA.
Related projects
The other two projects under the Water Optimisation Programme are the Leak Detection Project and the Leak Remediation Project, the agency stated.
The first, which was completed in January, trained 20 plumbing professionals in the public and private sectors to detect leaks.
It targeted the identification of visible and non-visible leaks in the areas of Lower Estate, Huntums Ghut, Purcell Estate and Baughers Bay.
The Leak Remediation Project, which is pending funding approval, will be designed to further improve water conservation and infrastructure resilience, according to the RDA.
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