Smart water meter adoption: drivers, barriers, and opportunities for enhanced water management

Smart water metres provide near real-time consumption data and enable early leak detection. Although they have been available for nearly three decades, limited research has examined their practical adoption, integration, and long-term impacts, particularly in the Australian context. This study offers new insights by analysing the adoption and implementation of smart water metres in Queensland, focusing on key drivers, barriers, and emerging opportunities. Findings show that adoption is steadily increasing; however, high implementation and maintenance costs remain the major barrier to adoption, especially when indirect or non-financial benefits are excluded. The study identifies significant potential to enhance the value of smart metres through integration with the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Data Analytics (DA). Insights from experts highlight the importance of selecting appropriate technologies, ensuring compatibility with existing systems, and embedding smart metres within broader water demand management strategies.