29. August 2023 Ι A new global collaboration is being deployed across the Phoenix metropolitan area to reduce water network losses through the power of actionable artificial intelligence (AI).

Oldcastle Infrastructure, A CRH Company and leader in innovative infrastructure solutions, will deliver leak detection and broader non-revenue water (NRW) water management and conservation solutions through its recently announced strategic partnership with UK-based AI and technology solutions provider, FIDO Tech. The 10-year project will cover 350km of the water pipeline network operated by EPCOR, the largest private utility in Arizona. Financed by Microsoft, the project will help the organization to make progress against its water replenishment goal, part of its overarching water-positive commitment.

Water scarcity in Phoenix: The need for innovative solutions

Phoenix, located in one of the driest regions in the United States, has long struggled with water scarcity, making it imperative for local stakeholders to proactively seek innovative solutions. The city’s rapid population growth, coupled with unpredictable weather patterns, has placed considerable stress on the area’s water supply. Recent reports have demonstrated an alarming reduction in groundwater levels and reservoir capacities, necessitating action. The Phoenix development follows the first project between Microsoft and FIDO Tech currently being delivered in London with UK utility, Thames Water.

FIDO Tech and Microsoft: Using AI to reduce water losses

The Phoenix development follows the first project between Microsoft and FIDO Tech currently being delivered in London with UK utility, Thames Water. FIDO’s AI solutions can identify leaks and, most importantly, rank them by size, even in the noisiest networks, regardless of pipe material or condition. Detecting and fixing water losses positively impacts water availability with immediate impact across local watersheds in a quantifiable way.

In 2020 Microsoft pledged to be water positive by 2030. This commitment is made up of five key pillars: reducing water use intensity, replenishing water sources, providing people with access to water and sanitation services, advocating for effective water policy and driving innovation to scale water solutions.

Jason Jackson, President of Oldcastle Infrastructure, said: “We are excited to join forces with FIDO Tech, Microsoft, and EPCOR in this landmark project. Our shared vision is to create a more sustainable and water-secure future. By leveraging technology and our expertise in infrastructure solutions, we are confident that this partnership will have a positive, lasting impact on the community and environment.”

Eliza Roberts, Water Lead at Microsoft, said: “As a part of our water-positive commitment, we are investing in innovative, scalable water solutions that help reduce global water withdrawals. We are excited to partner with FIDO on the next project, this time using AI-enabled acoustic analysis to reduce water lost to leakage in Arizona’s Colorado River Basin.”

Victoria Edwards, Co-Founder & CEO of FIDO Tech, said: “Water scarcity is biting harder and harder across the US, especially across the seven states of the Colorado River Basin. By reducing water losses, it positively contributes to water availability at a state-wide level and helps to provide water security. We are honored to work with Microsoft, Oldcastle Infrastructure and EPCOR to deliver actionable AI to reduce water losses and play a part in ensuring water security.”