Case Study: SCADA Upgrade in a Drinking Water Facility to Cut Costs and Boost Reliability

This project demonstrates how integrated SCADA automation significantly improved system reliability and reduced operational costs.

Background: Outdated, Fragmented Systems

Prior to the upgrade, the facility operated with manual and semi-automated controls spread across various process points. Data was collected via manual logs, pressure monitoring relied on analog manometers, and response times to issues were often slow due to limited system visibility.

Consequences:

• Non-Revenue Water (NRW): Averaged at 38%
• High Energy Consumption: Pumps ran at fixed output regardless of demand
• Low Service Reliability: Frequent customer complaints about pressure and supply continuity
• Overburdened Operators: Daily inspections were inefficient and time-consuming

Solution: Full Modernization with Integrated SCADA

In collaboration with Wiratama Sistem Integrasi (WSI), a comprehensive upgrade was carried out on the facility’s control and monitoring systems. The modernization scope included:

✅ Installation of Digital Sensors and IoT Devices

Digital pressure sensors, flowmeters, and water level sensors were installed at intake points, reservoirs, and key distribution nodes.

✅ Integration of PLC and RTU Systems

All process equipment—pumps, valves, dosing panels—was connected to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) integrated with the SCADA system.
Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) were deployed in remote areas to monitor secondary pipelines.

✅ Control Center and HMI Development

A centralized SCADA system with intuitive HMI (mimic diagrams) was implemented for operators.
Features include automated alarms, historical trends, and daily operation reports.

✅ Automated Energy Optimization Programming

Pump operation is now based on reservoir levels and off-peak hours, resulting in up to 18% reduction in electricity usage.

Results: Measurable Improvements in Just 6 Months

Performance IndicatorBefore SCADAAfter SCADANon-Revenue Water (NRW) | 38% | 22%
Energy Consumption | High (no load control) | Reduced by 18%
Response Time to Issues | > 4 hours | < 15 minutes
Customer Satisfaction | 63% | 91%
Manual Inspections/Day | 5x | 1x (as backup only)

Beyond operational efficiency, the new system has also enhanced technical documentation, regulatory reporting, and billing accuracy, thanks to automated and precise data collection.

A Proven Investment in Long-Term Value

This case study shows that investing in SCADA systems is not a burden—it is a strategic enabler of efficiency, resilience, and service quality. Through real-time monitoring, automated control, and historical analytics, water utilities can now do more with less, serving communities better while managing resources wisely.

💡 Ready to Modernize Your Water Systems?

If your utility or institution is planning to digitize water treatment operations, Wiratama Sistem Integrasi (WSI) is ready to be your trusted technology partner. With over a decade of experience in industrial automation, WSI offers flexible, scalable, and tailored SCADA solutions to meet your exact needs.

🌐 Visit wsi.co.id for a free consultation and feasibility study on SCADA integration for your water infrastructure.
It’s time to upgrade your system—save costs and increase reliability.