Facing an ageing, heterogeneous water network spread across a large rural area, Loire Forez Agglomération could not rely on a one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding local constraints, existing practices and long-term objectives of the public water service was a prerequisite to delivering a rural water network modernization truly aligned with on-the-ground realities.
In the field, the same questions consistently arise:
How can a reliable and sustainable water service be ensured while protecting water resources and progressively modernizing infrastructure across an extended and operationally complex rural territory?
Tailored support for local authorities and rural utilities
As Regional Manager, Damien Garnier established a close and continuous dialogue with the local authority teams to clearly identify their needs: simplifying meter reading operations, improving the reliability of field data, enhancing network performance, and preparing the digital transition—without disrupting day-to-day operations.
This tailored support for local authorities enabled the co-construction of a realistic and sustainable roadmap, fully aligned with both operational constraints and human factors within the public water service.
The key was to move forward step by step: first deploying meters, then activating remote meter reading through Passive Drive-by and Walk-by. Centralizing data on a single platform provides better visibility and more efficient network management.
Damien Garnier, Regional Manager at Diehl Metering
A scalable solution adapted to local challenges
Rather than imposing a single solution, Damien Garnier supported Loire Forez Agglomération in building a hybrid and scalable solution, capable of adapting to local challenges and the specificities of a large and heterogeneous rural network.
At the core of this progressive approach, a strategic choice was made: the ALTAIR V5 smart water meter, enabling early leak detection, high data accuracy, and a sustainable, future-proof remote meter reading strategy.
Gradual remote meter reading rollout and reliable data
By combining several reading modes:
- Walk-by and Drive-by,
- Passive Drive-by,
- and ultimately a fixed IoT network (remote meter reading).
The local authority was able to deploy remote water meter reading gradually, controlling investments while ensuring reliable field data from the earliest project phases.
This step-by-step rollout enables more precise water network monitoring and decision-making, without operational disruption.
Empowering field teams and simplifying daily operations
Beyond technology, the success of the Loire Forez project relies on strong human support and a clear focus on skills development. Damien Garnier supported teams throughout the entire project—from diagnostic and advisory phases to deployment, training and system adoption.
This close field-based approach simplified daily operations, secured new processes, and fostered long-term buy-in from field teams.
An inspiring project for the digitalization of rural public water services
Today, Loire Forez benefits from a more efficient, more transparent and more sustainable water network. Automated meter reading, proactive leak detection and improved data quality have strengthened service reliability and enhanced service quality for end users.
This project demonstrates how the digitalization of rural public water services, driven by a scalable solution and close local support, can become a powerful lever for performance and sustainability—while keeping people and field realities at the heart of the transformation.
Through this concrete experience, Loire Forez Agglomération shares a pragmatic and responsible vision of digital transformation: progressing step by step, relying on trusted field data, and leading by example to support rural utilities facing similar challenges.
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FAQ: Addressing the challenges of digitalizing and optimizing water networks for local authorities
How can a tailored water strategy be developed?
An effective strategy is built on field insight, analysis of existing data, and a progressive support approach tailored to local specificities and the operational realities of water networks.
What benefits does this bring to field teams at the heart of water network operations?
Simplified tools, reliable data, fewer unnecessary field interventions, and sustainable skills development,supporting more efficient water network management and maintenance.
How can change adoption be encouraged within public authorities?
Through tailored support (for example via solutions and services dedicated to connectivity and the digitalization of water networks), continuous communication, and the strong involvement of teams from the very first phases of the project.