ABB invests in water network monitoring company

ABB recently announced its decision to invest in TaKaDu, a provider of advanced monitoring solutions for water distribution networks.

TaKaDu provides a software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution that gives real-time alerts on water network faults, leaks, bursts, network breaches, faulty meters and other inefficiencies. The solution is based on sophisticated cloud-based data analysis. TaKaDu claims it requires no network changes, additional devices or capital expenditure.

It leverages multiple data sources including inputs from network operations, online sensor-based flow and pressure data and other external influencers such as weather and calendar events. The data can be securely accessed over the internet.

Apparently this technology can significantly reduce water losses, often referred to as non-revenue water (NRW). Since the World Bank estimates global water loss at up to 30%, this technology potentially represents a $20 billion saving, ABB said.

“TaKaDu’s innovative solution enables commercial water network operators to monitor their distribution networks efficiently and reduce losses,” said Franz-Josef Mengede, head of ABB’s Power Generation business. “Water is a key focus area for ABB and this investment will further strengthen our power and automation offering for the sector.”