More than 4000 homes across Mandurah are part of a Water Corporation pilot program trialling smart water meters.
The properties are among 16,000 in Perth and Peel that will be part of the trial, touted as one of the largest launched in Australia.
Smart water meters will be installed, which transmit wireless water-use data, allowing customers to view daily water consumption in hourly increments through an online account available from the middle of this year.
According to the Water Corporation, the technology makes it easy to notify customers of high or unusual water use patterns, helping them identify leaks sooner and reducing the risk of surprise bills.
The rollout starts in Halls Head, with 1286 being installed from early April, and a further 2779 meters to follow at properties in Dawesville and Mandurah.
Smart water meters will also be installed at about 750 homes in Lakelands in the second half of the year.
Water Corporation customer and community manager Karen Willis said the pilot program would provide valuable insights into the benefits and practical application of smart meters in Perth and Peel.
“Climate change is continuing to impact the amount of water flowing into our dams, which means it’s more important than ever to be water wise,” she said.
“Smart meters are one way we can empower people to take action to reduce water consumption around the home.
“We know that by giving people greater access to information about their water use, they’re far more likely to alter their behaviours.
“The other benefit is we’ll be able identify and notify customers of internal leaks far sooner, which helps save water and also reduces the potential for surprise bills.”
The trial will run until mid-2025.
More information here.