Above Above-Net , a leader in intelligent Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions , was recognized as a standout in the Sanitation Management Innovation (SIM) of the National Sanitation Quality Award (PNQS) , one of the industry's most prestigious awards, granted by the Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (ABES) .
The award-winning project, developed for a major sanitation client, demonstrated significant operational efficiency energy savings of over 200,000 kWh seven months of operation in the city of Miguel Pereira, Rio de Janeiro .
The Challenge
The project was implemented in the Fragoso WTP's raw water intake and treated water pumping system in Miguel Pereira, Rio de Janeiro, with the goal of optimizing the process, which involved three critical points: the riverbed intake, the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) reservoir, and an intermediate junction box. The main challenge was integrating these three systems, which traditionally operated independently.
"Many companies face challenges when it comes to local automation. Within a single station, the automation process typically works well, with pumps, levels, and other equipment regulating each other within the same physical space. However, the situation becomes more complicated when different locations are involved. Many companies have difficulty connecting the PLC—considered the heart of automation—in one unit to and adjust based on machines or equipment in another location. This visibility and the intelligence associated with integration provide unprecedented operational savings," explains Rafael Pougy, project manager at Above-Net .
The Solution
Above-Net implemented an innovative solution using Bridgemeter, installing digital and analog level gauges, along with sensors, at two strategic locations. The system enabled intelligent automation integration, enabling Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) at each location to communicate with each other, even when physically distant.
The system allows:
- Integrated automatic adjustment of pump rotation according to reservoir levels
- Optimizing operation during reduced tariff periods
- Integrated control to avoid wasting treated water
- Real-time remote monitoring
- Remote automation programming and adjustments
The project was implemented efficiently, reusing analog sensors inherited from the former dealership and establishing a SaaS (Software as a Service) service with a recurring monthly cost for data monitoring and supervision.
Expressive Results
Project results demonstrate an exceptional return on investment (ROI) of 1916% in the first seven months of operation, with:
- Reduction of 201,786 kWh in energy consumption in seven months (9% savings)
- Financial savings of R$ 270,213.00 (18% reduction in costs)
- Agile implementation with immediate return on investment
- Projected savings of over R$1,200,000.00 over the next five years
It is worth noting that the savings recorded only consider the reduction in energy consumption, not taking into account the additional gains obtained by reducing treated water losses and optimizing equipment maintenance.
"This case demonstrates Bridgemeter's transformative potential in the sanitation sector. Through intelligent systems integration and advanced automation, we were able to not only significantly reduce energy consumption but also optimize the entire operation, generating substantial benefits for our client," highlights Marcelo Ramos, CEO of Above-Net .
Industry Context
The project gains even more relevance considering the current context of the sanitation sector. With the goals of universalizing services by 2033, established by the Sanitation Legal Framework, energy demand in the sector is expected to grow significantly. According to data from the Private Sanitation Sector Information System (SPRIS), energy costs can represent up to 30% of sanitation companies' operating costs.
Agile and Sustainable Implementation
A key differentiator of the project was its rapid and efficient implementation. In just 15 days, the Above-Net installed the level meters, configured the system, and performed operational testing, enabling rapid results. The project demonstrated that significant improvements in operational efficiency can be achieved with a modest initial investment, generating significant returns in a very short time.
The initial cost was fully absorbed by the financial model, and optimizations through the use of sensors and system automation occurred without impacting the project's Opex.
Transform the Operational Efficiency of your Sanitation System
Above-Net 's award-winning results in the sanitation sector demonstrate the transformative power of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) when applied intelligently. A 200,000 kWh reduction in energy consumption in just seven months is just one example of the impact we can have on your operation.
Want to find out how your company can achieve similar results?
Intelligent Sanitation Operational Management catalog now and discover how Bridgemeter can:
- Optimize the energy consumption of your operation
- Significantly reduce operating costs
- Increase the efficiency and reliability of systems
- Implement smart predictive maintenance
- Ensure 24/7 monitoring with real-time alerts
Bridgemeter already saves companies in the sector millions. It's time for your operation to take the next step toward operational excellence.
Application
Want to learn more about how Bridgemeter can revolutionize your company's sanitation operations?
Download our free brochure “Smart Sanitation Operational Management” now and discover how our Industrial IoT technology can optimize your processes, reduce costs, and increase operational efficiency.
Transform your sanitation infrastructure with cutting-edge solutions from Above-Net. Don't miss this opportunity to take your operation to the next level!
