Investing in Intelligent
Technology:
Facing Today's Wastewater Challenges
with the Future in Mind
*>EPA
832-F-24-004
March 2024
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Wastewater collection and treatment is one of the most fundamental, critical
services local governments and utilities provide residents. The wastewater treatment
sector is facing numerous challenges, including limited resources to upgrade aging infrastructure;
lack of adequate data and information for proactive system operation and maintenance; and
difficulty in recruiting, training, and retaining skilled workers to replace an aging workforce.
Many utilities across the country are tackling these challenges by investing in water and
wastewater infrastructure technology to create what are known as intelligent water systems.
That term might sound futuristic but building an intelligent water system can be as simple as
connecting existing sensors and meters and then transmitting data from them to allow for remote
access to information. By improving access to timely data and information, utilities can improve
their operations and decision-making. The technologies highlighted in this document are at work
in many communities right now, helping them to create intelligent water systems to take on
today's challenges while adapting and preparing for future challenges (e.g., increasingly intense
wet weather events, population expansion, and attracting a technology-savvy and data-driven
workforce). This document also demonstrates potential ways that communities can use funds
from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) to incorporate intelligent water systems in
their utility operations.
This document is for communities that want to learn how other communities of various sizes,
locations, and demographics are developing intelligent water systems and using CWSRF money
to invest in technologies today for a more efficient and resilient water system in the future. The
document provides a brief overview of select intelligent technologies: telemetry, advanced
metering, real-time controls, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
systems. These intelligent technologies are highlighted because they:
¦ Are readily available, well established in practice, and widely implemented in intelligent water
systems across a variety of communities.
¦ Can serve as building blocks for communities to expand into additional intelligent systems.
¦ Offer automated access to data and information that utilities can use to improve decision-
making and reduce operational costs.
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CWSRF Investment in Intelligent Technology in the United States
Over the last 10 years (2013-2023), the CWSRF has invested in 179 projects with intelligent
technologies. Almost half of these projects are in small communities, and many are in rural and/or
disadvantaged communities (Figures 1, 2 and 3).
Hawaii
Number of Projects using
Intelligent Technologies
HO lllllll 8-13
^1-3 14 - 28
4-7
Figure 1. Projects that have used CWSRF funding to implement intelligent technologies between 2013
and 2023,1
100,001-1 M
14.5%
0-10,000
45.8%
10,001-100,000
38.5%
Figure 2. Population size of project locations and relative
percentage of the 179 communities that installed intelligent
technologies between 2013 and 2023 using CWSRF.
The Water Environment Federation's
Intelligent Water Systems: The Path
to a Smart Utility describes the value
of and barriers to implementing
intelligent technologies. EPA's
Searchable Clearinghouse of
WastewaterTechnology (SCOWT)
also includes resources about
intelligent technologies for
decentralized, wastewater and reuse
water systems. The Water Research
Foundation's webpage on Intelligent
Water Systems includes resources
on newly developed technologies for
wastewater utilities.
1. Intelligent technologies presented in this map and other figures were identified from the EPA Office of Water State
Revolving Fund database based on a keyword search for the following terms: advanced metering
infrastructure, automated meter reading, real time control, SCADA, and telemetry installations.
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Puerto Rico
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technology. Building on this infrastructure, the utility can integrate artificial intelligence (Al) and
machine learning software, which can evaluate historical data, provide predictive capabilities, and
perform analyses on a scale not possible for an individual, reducing risk and enhancing proactive
action planning. By combining intelligent technologies, a utility can improve asset management
and achieve a better understanding of its collection and treatment system performance. Such
improvements can help the utility meet and maintain regulatory compliance, among other benefits.
Intelligent Technology Spotlight
Telemetry
Telemetry systems automatically transmit data
from sensors at remote points in the collection
and treatment system to a communications
center for review and analysis. The use of
telemetry allows utilities to gather real-time
data for an accurate overview of system
operation. Telemetry systems can be used
in combination with other technologies,
including real-time controls, to create a
more robust intelligent water system. For
example, a small community might implement
telemetry systems with flow monitoring to
better understand the impacts of infiltration
and inflow. Compared to typical manual field
measurements, telemetry reduces the lag
times for transmission of data. This allows for
more efficient and informed decision-making
and reduces the time technicians spend taking
manual measurements, providing more time
to focus on proactive asset management.
According to the National Association of Clean
Water Agencies (NACWA) guide for Envisioning
the Digital Utility of the Future, intelligent
technologies can benefit utilities in significant
ways. For example, they can:
¦ Reduce operational costs.
¦ Manage and mitigate risks.
¦ Enhance the customer experience.
¦ Improve financial execution.
¦ Optimize asset performance and uncover
hidden value.
¦ Leverage existing communications and
computing platforms.
¦ Maximize the engagement and efficiency
of employees.
¦ Integrate water quality, policy, and
performance.
Metering
Automated Meter Reading (AMR) is used to automatically read drinking water system data from
installed meters. These meters have a data transmitter that can send water flow and alarm data
to a receiver in close proximity (usually when an operator drives or walks by). The data are then
transferred to a database where they can be readily analyzed.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is an integrated system of water meters, telemetry, and
data management systems that can automatically transmit usage data directly to utility personnel
in a remote location. AMI enhances a utility's ability to monitor consumption patterns, identify
leaks, and improve overall facility water management.
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Both solutions provide a community with the ability to
monitor and analyze data quickly and more efficiently,
compared with the manual reading of water meters.
This allows faster communication with customers.
By showing usage data in near real-time, a utility can
help identify leaks and encourage water conservation,
potentially leading to reductions in potable water
demand and use. Such reductions decrease the
discharges that require treatment at the wastewater
treatment plant, reducing energy usage and maximizing
the plant's treatment capacity.
0
Real-time control devices (i.e., programmable controllers)
can autonomously activate pumps, valves, etc. in the field to
optimize performance or make process adjustments based
on data transmitted from remote sensors. For instance, the
dosage of chemicals or the timing of aeration cycles and
process streams can be controlled without active operator
input. These types of automated controls can improve system
efficiency and reduce energy use and the need for chemical
addition. They can also be used to dynamically control and
optimize storage handling during wet weather events. This
automation reduces the demand on the utility's workforce to
monitor and analyze water quality and flow data and adjust
controls.
Real-time controls can control a single device or many devices
throughout a system, typically using SCADA. These controls
can be enhanced by using data analytics, modeling or even
artificial intelligence (Al) to optimize operations.
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Real-Time Controls Reduce Combined Sewer Overflow
Volumes
Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati
Between 2017 and 2019, the Metropolitan
Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (MSD)
used Ohio State Revolving Fund financing
to address discharges from a large
combined sewer outfall (CS0181). During
dry weather, wastewater flows are treated
at the Miii Creek Wastewater Treatment
Plant. Prior to the upgrades, about 916
million gallons of untreated wastewater a
year would overflow at this outfall during
rainfall events into a channel that discharges
to Miii Creek. To address the discharges,
MSD installed a real-time control facility
at CS0181.The facility houses specialized
gates and bending weirs automatically controlled by a series of flow and level sensors located
at the facility and remotely at critical points in the downstream sewer system. The facility's
automated controls monitor and adjust to temporarily store excess sewage and rainwater
during storms and then send the combined flow to the Mill Creek plant when capacity in the
sewer system is available, MSD estimates that the facility reduced discharges from this outfall
by 557 million gallons annually—a 61 percent reduction. The real-time controls installed at
CS0181 are part of MSD's efforts to develop a "smart sewer," that connects collection system
sensors and remote assets installed across MSD's service area in a shared communication
and control network. MSD has installed similar controls at seven CSOs (out of 250), but the
entire system benefits because the monitoring and control technologies manage the system
dynamically and automatically to adjust interceptor sewer capacity during peak wet weather
events.
SCADA
SCADA systems use both software and hardware to monitor and analyze wastewater in real
time at a central location, enabling the utility to make more timely and informed operations and
maintenance decisions. SCADA systems can receive and analyze sensor data to automatically
control motors, pumps, variable-frequency drives, and other equipment in the field based on
CS0181 dry and during overflow. Source: MSD of
Greater Cincinnati.
^ It's my firm belief that how we're doing this is how collection systems should
be managed in the 21st century, and the technology exists to do that."
—Reese Johnson,
Superintendent, Compliance Services Divisions, Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati
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operating parameters, setpoints, real-time data, and
alarms. SCADA systems can display data using visual
interfaces (e.g., graphical user interfaces) to convey
information quickly and simplify the workforce's
operations. SCADA also can enhance a utility's system
security by providing constant monitoring and immediate
notification of any security breaches. SCADA can also
reduce the need for regular operator patrols and can
drastically reduce the frequency of visits to remote
sites. Today's SCADA systems also have the capability to
interface with smart phones and tablets, making critical
data even more immediately accessible.
SCADA Leads to Better Data, Reduced Demand on
Workforce
Globe, Arizona
The Pinal Creek WastewaterTreatment Facility serves over 7000 customers in Globe, Arizona,
many of whom are low-income, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2020, the city
used CWSRF funding to replace the existing SCADA system at the treatment facility. The
Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona worked closely with city staff, helping with
administrative challenges and providing guidance throughout the CWSRF application process.
The new SCADA system provides more complete and accurate system operating data. The
automated system monitoring has decreased the demand on Globe's workforce by reducing
the number of field visits and manual system observations required.
EPA's Smart Data Infrastructure for Wet Weather Control and Decision Support (2021) provides
additional guidance and case studies on how communities can use intelligent systems to control wet
weather discharges in or near real time.
Making Intelligent Technology Accessible
Implementing intelligent technologies can seem daunting for many communities—particularly those
with small budgets and resource limitations. A portion of the CWSRF funds are set aside through
the Green Project Reserve for innovative projects—including intelligent technologies—that integrate
energy or water efficiency. In addition, SCADA, telemetry, real-time controls, and other intelligent
technologies can often be implemented as part of a larger improvement project. See EPA's CWSR:::
website for other project eligibilities.
Recognizing the benefits, some states have made a coordinated effort to promote and fund
intelligent technologies. For example, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has issued CWSRF
loans for over 20 projects that included intelligent technologies across different municipal authorities
since 2015. These projects have focused on increasing the state's water efficiency and have
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included accessible intelligent water system technologies like AMR/AMI and telemetry. In 2012,
Oklahoma passed the Water for 2060 Act, which established a statewide goal of consuming no
more fresh water in 2060 than was consumed in 2012. To achieve this goal without limiting future
growth, Oklahoma looked to implement technologies to promote water efficiency.
The Oklahoma Water Resources Board highlighted the eligibility
of water efficiency projects under the SRF Green Project Reserve
marketing efforts. The Board also encouraged municipalities across
Oklahoma to apply for SRF funding and awarded additional points
for projects that fulfill the goals of the Water for 2060 Act.
The Oklahoma Water Resources Board granted communities
loans with below-market interest rates for these water efficiency
projects. The loans allowed smaller communities to implement
intelligent water system technologies that can help generate
revenue for the utility and help reduce the demand on the
workforce. Communities like the city of Shawnee utilized these
funds for the installation of AMR/AMI technology that can aid in the
early detection of leaks and remove the need for staff to manually read water meters.
Communities—particularly in rural areas—may also
have concerns about having sufficient broadband to
support intelligent technologies. Not all intelligent
technologies require broadband; some use radio
waves or cellular signals. However, as technologies
increase in complexity, reliable internet is key
BroadbandUSA provides resources and news related
to national telecommunications programs, including
funding opportunities such as the Tribal Broadband
Connectivity Program, which began in 2021 and as of July 2023 has awarded $1.78 billion to 191
Tribal entities. CWSRF money can be used to fund the purchase and installation of intelligent
technologies at publicly owned treatment works. Funds can be used for the initial purchase and
installation of internet connectivity equipment required for intelligent technologies, but not for
ongoing fees or bills associated with internet connectivity.
[£¦
Addressing Broadband Need and
Cybersecurity Risk
Cybersecurity risk is real for all wastewater systems, no matter the size, and could be a source
of concern when new interconnected technologies are considered. Existing resources may help
communities navigate how to keep their systems cyber-secure:
¦ The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Federal Bureau of Investigation
(FBI), and EPA published an Incident Response Guide to assist owners and operators in the
water and wastewater sector with best practices for cyber incident response and to provide
information about federal roles, resources, and responsibilities for each stage of the response
lifecycle.
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EPA, CISA, and FBI developed the Water and Wastewater Systems SectorTop Cvber
Actions Fact Sheet. This fact sheet highlights the top cyber actions water systems can
take to reduce cyber risk; improve resilience to cyberattacks; and provides free services,
resources, and tools to support these actions, all of which can be taken concurrently.
CISA can help drinking water and wastewater systems identify and address vulnerabilities
with a free vulnerability scanning. CISA utilizes automated tools to conduct vulnerability
scanning on external networks looking for vulnerabilities and weak configurations that
adversaries could use to conduct a cyberattack.
The U.S. Department of Energy outlined 21 Steps to Improve Cvber Security of SCADA
Networks.
The American Water Works Association's Cvbersecuritv and Guidance website provides
resources such as an assessment tool and guidance, policy actions, education opportunities,
and events.
EPA's CybersecurityTechnical Assistance Program provides primacy agencies, drinking water
and wastewater systems, circuit riders, and technical assistance providers consultations
regarding cybersecurity.
EPA's Water Sector Cvbersecuritv Evaluation Program provides free cybersecurity
assessments for drinking water and wastewater systems to identify gaps or vulnerabilites in
information technology and operational technology.
CISA and EPA's Water and Wastewater Cybersecurity Toolkit consolidates key resources for
water and wastewater systems at every level of cybersecurity maturity.
The Water Environment Federation's Water Security and Emergency Response website
compiles a list of federal and non-profit cybersecurity resources for water utilities.
%
Advanced Data Analytics
SCADA Real-Time Controls
A.
Telemetry
Metering
Looking forTechnical Assistance?
Contact EPA's WaterTA Program to identify resources for technical assistance in your community.
Technical assistance providers can help:
¦ Identify technology options
¦ Select the most appropriate technology
¦ Assess costs and benefits
¦ Evaluate operations and maintenance impacts
¦ Identify financing options and secure funding
For more information visit EPA's Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Searchable Clearinghouse
ofWastewaterTechnology (SCOWT). NACWA's Envisioning the Digital Utility of the Future. WEF's
IntelligentWater Systems: The Path to a Smart Utility, and WRF's Intelligent Water Systems.
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