INTRODUCTION TO IWN PROGRAMS

IWN is managed and funded by the water industry and the model is the only type of its kind in Australia. It is considered a unique example of industry led collaboration. 

IWN is committed to delivering value and supporting its members to explore solutions that:

• maximise existing infrastructure life

• minimise customer disruption, and

• optimise expenditure.

The need to better understand asset condition and network performance, while minimising customer interruption has lead to a strong focus on technology trials. IWN programs are aimed at offering new technologies and better ways of operating.

IWN programs include:

• Big Data and Analytics

• Asset Management and Optimisation Program

• Leak Detection, Condition Assessment and Infiltration Program

• Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing Program

• Edge Technologies

• Energy and Carbon

• Biosolids and Resource Recovery Program

Program stages:

IWN undertakes a  four stage ‘gated’ approach which progressively increases understanding and mitigates stakeholder risks by providing outcomes, deliverables and approval prior to progressing to a further stage. 

• Stage 1 – Feasibility study.

• Stage 2 – Investigation of key areas (customer needs and values, network efficiency, information management, business case, governance and environmental scan).

• Stage 3 – Proof-of-concept/proof-of-principle trials (confirming the technology can deliver business needs). Business case developed and approved prior to trials.

• Stage 4 – Pilot projects and industry roll out on a broader scale.

As new priorities for the water sector emerge or new technologies are identified IWN will continue to cycle through Stages 3 and 4 to ensure they are thoroughly investigated.