The City of Dubuque is launching a new system designed to help local residents save money on their water bills. Dubuque Water Department Manager Bob Green says crews are installing computerized meter readers and the city is partnering with I.B.M. to collect the information.
“I.B.M. will then analyze that data and be able to develop the behavior pattern of people and usage of the water product,” Green said. That information will passed on to individual consumers. “They’ll be able to understand their product use and the cost associated with it,” Green said. The devices will first be tested in 250 to 1,000 homes and businesses.
Green says residents who participate in the pilot project should be able to go online and track their daily water usage. The system should even help customers identify possible water leaks. Green is hoping everyone in the city will have access to the “smart water” program within two years.