Learn How this Surrey Water Company Uses AI to Plug Supply Leaks

Surrey-based leading water company Sutton and East Surrey (SES) Water has implemented AI to curb water leaks in its entire network. With 1,000 underground sensors monitoring flow and pressure, the system quickly detects anomalies and sends real-time data to the base.

It not only alerts engineers within minutes of a potential leak but also predicts normal levels for proactive responses.

SES Water's innovation manager, Jeremy Heath, emphasized the efficiency of the AI system in a BBC interview, saying, “It allows us to react, get the crews out really quickly and get the repairs done." 

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to address water leakage, a significant issue in England and Wales, accounting for around 20% of water loss according to the Water Services Regulation Authority (Ofwat).

The company aims to reduce leakage by 15% within five years, viewing its AI-driven project as a pioneering effort in the water industry. Liam Ahearne, Head of Asset Strategy explained that there has been a 40% reduction in leakage run rate times through their smart network.

SES Water supplies water to 300,000 homes and businesses, covering parts of Surrey, Kent, and South London. While boasting a commendable leakage record, the company still loses 76 liters per property daily, as per the 2022/23 figures. However, SES Water is committed to decreasing this by four liters per day by 2025, equivalent to saving almost half an Olympic-sized swimming pool each day.

SES Water, in its business plan, has committed to a more ambitious 26.5% reduction in leakage over the decade leading to 2030.