SES Water smart meter retrofit technology is enabling a major reduction in rollout costs, with the utility upgrading more than 30,000 properties without replacing existing infrastructure.
Working with British technology firm B4T, SES Water has deployed retrofit devices to convert legacy and semi-smart meters into a fully connected digital network.
SES Water smart meter retrofit technology reduces infrastructure costs
Instead of undertaking a full smart meter replacement programme, SES Water upgraded its existing assets using B4T’s Jellyfish Bridge technology. This approach has reduced rollout costs by around 70%, while accelerating the deployment of smart capabilities across its network.
In just four months, a two-person engineering team installed 5,000 devices across Sutton, demonstrating the scalability of the retrofit approach.
High connectivity enables real-time monitoring
The system delivers over 93% connectivity and achieves message delivery rates of around 92%, including from underground meter locations. This enables hourly data collection, supporting faster leak detection and reducing reliance on manual meter readings.
The Jellyfish device connects multiple meters via short-range radio, compressing and securely transmitting data over cellular networks. The technology supports a range of communication protocols, including NB-IoT, CAT-M, LoRaWAN and Sigfox.
Flexible platform supports network expansion
The retrofit model allows utilities to build a flexible digital platform that can be expanded over time without significant additional infrastructure investment. Devices can be configured remotely, reducing the need for site visits and enabling more efficient network management.
SES Water highlighted the role of the technology in meeting efficiency targets and improving operational performance, particularly in areas with high meter penetration.
Wider applications for leakage detection and network management
Beyond smart metering, the technology is being developed to support broader water network monitoring. In collaboration with international partners, additional capabilities such as pressure sensing are being integrated to enhance leakage detection within distribution networks.
This reflects a wider shift across the water sector towards data-driven asset management and cost-effective digital transformation strategies.
For more digital water innovations, visit our Technology coverage.
