[Melbourne, Australia, May 5, 2016] Huawei and South East Water(SEW) announced a joint project in which they will begin testing NB-IoT, a new low-powered communications technology, that aims to help SEW extend the use of real-time monitoring, and help South East Water to improve the reliability, efficiency and safety of its water and sewer assets. As a 3GPP standard technology, with simple upgrade of operator’s country-covered network, NB-IoT could provide reliable and secured network access services.

Standardized by 3GPP, NB-IoT is a low-cost narrowband radio technology that uses less power than other communications standards, enabling the connection of thousands of physical objects, such as hand-held devices, infrastructure, wearables and vehicles.

It provides the network connectivity that enables the embedded electronics, sensors and software in these devices to collect and exchange data regardless of their location, providing operators with detailed, real-time information on which to base decisions.

Initially, existing 3G technology will be replaced with NB-IoT technology to transmit real-time data on network performance, asset condition and fault management across South East Water’s Peninsula ECO sewer network. The data will be used to control waste water flows from each property, and identify faults across the network.

To simulate different conditions and applications, testing will also be undertaken on similar sewer infrastructure in the Belgrave area of the Dandenong Ranges, and on a range of assets in Southbank. The total test area will cover approximately 1000 square kilometers.

In addition to sewer networks, the testing will see NB-IoT chipsets installed on manhole covers to alert operators to unauthorized sewer access, reducing the risk of accident and injury and damage to water assets.

The technology will also be installed in rainwater tank management systems, and used to transmit and receive data about storage levels and expected rainfall, which is used to optimize rainwater harvesting/storm water run-off.

“The emergence of lower powered, low cost networks with increased coverage has the potential to unlock enormous value for water utilities and their customers.” said Phil Johnson, Corporate and Commercial General Manager at South East Water. “Through this trial, we are building a platform for a more reliable and sustainable water supply, a safer place for our people to work, and more cost-effective services for our customers.”

“On April 13, Huawei issued a global connect index (GCI), we see that Australia ranking 11, is in the global leading position. Australia has established its infrastructures yet it is still trying to adapt the big data and IoT technologies which can be gradually realized by constant and consistent commitment to the new technologies and innovations. Digital economy is the key to drive the social development.” said James Zhao, CEO of Huawei Australia.

“Huawei has been committed to innovation in the field of data connectivity. We are willing to use our global platform and innovative capabilities in collaboration with vertical industries in Australia to reach its potential for future development and success in the digital economy. In the meantime, these business cases and experiences can be promoted globally together by Huawei and Australian local enterprises.” said Zhao Xichu, CEO of Huawei Australia.