Smart Storm Overflow Project Launches in the UK

Published on June 30, 2024

Northumbrian Water has initiated a pioneering £20 million project aimed at significantly reducing storm overflow spills across Tyneside. This first-of-its-kind UK project integrates new technology, sensors, and AI analytics, drawing on successful techniques from the US.

Inspired by a similar initiative in South Bend, Indiana, which achieved an 80% reduction in spills over 10 years, the UK project will employ smart sewer technology to manage and direct wastewater flows, thereby preventing overflows.

The system, featuring AI and numerous sensors, will predict and manage rain-induced sewer capacity issues, automatically diverting wastewater to less full parts of the network. It will also identify where additional capacity is needed, facilitating targeted investments.

The project aims to protect the region’s rivers and maintain high standards of bathing waters, with 32 out of 34 meeting top Defra standards.

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