Above Above-Net , a leader in intelligent Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions , was recognized as a standout in the Innovation in Sanitation Management (IGS) of the National Quality Award in Sanitation (PNQS) , one of the most prestigious distinctions in the sector, granted by the Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (ABES) .
The award-winning project, developed for a major client in the sanitation sector, demonstrated significant operational efficiency energy savings of over 200,000 kWh seven months of operation in the city of Miguel Pereira (RJ) .
The Challenge
The project was implemented at the raw water intake and treated water pumping station of the Fragoso Water Treatment Plant in Miguel Pereira (RJ), with the aim of optimizing the process involving three critical points: the intake from the riverbed, the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) reservoir, and an intermediate passage box. The main challenge was the integration of these three systems, which traditionally operated independently.
“Many companies face challenges when it comes to local automation. Within the same plant, the automation process usually works well, with pumps, levels, and other equipment mutually regulating each other within the same physical space. However, the situation becomes complicated when different locations are involved. Many companies have difficulty getting the PLC—considered the heart of automation—of one unit to connect and adjust based on machines or equipment from another location. This visibility and the intelligence associated with integration provides unprecedented cost savings for the operation,” explains Rafael Pougy, project manager at Above-Net .
The Solution
Above-Net implemented an innovative solution using Bridgemeter, installing digital and analog level meters, along with sensors at two strategic points. The system enabled intelligent automation integration, allowing the Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) at each location to communicate with each other, even when physically distant.
The system allows:
- Integrated automatic adjustment of pump speed according to reservoir levels
- Optimizing operations during off-peak periods
- Integrated control to prevent waste of treated water
- Real-time remote monitoring
- Remote programming and adjustments of automation
The project was implemented efficiently, reusing analog sensors inherited from the former utility company and establishing a SaaS (Software as a Service) model with a recurring monthly cost for data monitoring and supervision.
Impressive Results
The project results demonstrate an exceptional return on investment (ROI) of 1916% in the first seven months of operation, with:
- A reduction of 201,786 kWh in energy consumption over seven months (9% savings)
- Financial savings of R$ 270,213.00 (18% reduction in costs)
- Agile implementation with immediate return on investment
- Projected savings exceeding R$ 1,200,000.00 over the next five years
It is worth noting that the recorded savings only consider the reduction in energy consumption, not accounting for the additional gains obtained from the reduction in treated water losses and the optimization of equipment maintenance.
“This case demonstrates the transformative potential of Bridgemeter in the sanitation sector. Through intelligent system integration and advanced automation, we were able not only to significantly reduce energy consumption, but also to optimize the entire operation, generating substantial benefits for our client ,” highlights Marcelo Ramos, CEO of Above-Net .
Sector 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 Legal Framework for Sanitation, the demand for energy in the sector tends to grow significantly. According to data from the Private Segment Information System of the Sanitation Sector (SPRIS), energy costs can represent up to 30% of the operational costs of sanitation companies.
Agile and Sustainable Implementation
A key differentiator of the project was its rapid and efficient implementation. In just 15 days, the Above-Net completed the installation of the level gauges, system configuration, and operational testing, allowing results to be achieved quickly. The project demonstrated that it is possible to achieve significant improvements in operational efficiency with a modest initial investment, generating a substantial return in a very short time.
The initial cost was fully absorbed by the financial model, and the optimizations through the use of sensors and system automation occurred without impacting the project's operating expenses.
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 intelligently applied. A reduction of 200,000 kWh in energy consumption in just seven months is just one example of the impact we can generate in your operation.
Want to discover how your company can achieve similar results?
Download our Smart Operational Management for Sanitation and discover how Bridgemeter can:
- Optimize the energy consumption of your operation
- Reduce operational costs significantly
- Increase the efficiency and reliability of systems
- Implement intelligent predictive maintenance
- Ensure 24/7 monitoring with real-time alerts
Bridgemeter already saves millions for companies in the sector. It's time for your operation to take the next step towards operational excellence.
Application
Want to learn more about how Bridgemeter can revolutionize your company's sanitation operations?
Download our free catalog “Smart Operational Management for Sanitation” 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!
