The HKU Centre for Water Technology and Policy Champions Data-Driven Water Conservation with the Water Smart Taskforce Programme
The Centre for Water Technology and Policy (the ‘Centre’) at The University of Hong Kong has been commissioned by the Water Supplies Department (WSD) of the HKSAR Government to collect and analyse water usage data from high-consumption customers. This initiative, known as the Water Smart Taskforce Programme, has been conducted from February 2025 to early the following year. Approximately 1,000 domestic and non-domestic customers with high water usage have been invited to participate in detailed water-usage check-ups, which will be carried out in phases. The primary goal is to help participants better understand their water consumption habits.
To achieve this, AI-powered, high-precision water meter readers have been installed on participants’ existing meters. These devices analyse the causes of high water consumption, such as cooking, laundry, and showering, and compare individual usage with household averages. The collected data is sent to the Centre for AI-driven analysis. Mid-term reports will provide participants with personalised water-saving advice, enabling them to adjust their water usage behaviours. Final reports, delivered at the end of the eight-week programme, will show participants the impact of their conservation efforts. Through this programme, WSD aims to promote water conservation by empowering participants to monitor and reduce their water consumption, ultimately lowering their water bills.
About the Centre for Water Technology and Policy
Established in 2018, the Centre for Water Technology and Policy at The University of Hong Kong is an inter-faculty collaborative unit between the Faculties of Engineering and Social Sciences. The Centre conducts interdisciplinary research and analysis to generate professional insights into complex, multi-dimensional issues in the urban water sector. By combining the strengths of both engineering and social sciences, the Centre develops innovative approaches and unique diagnostic capabilities to address water-related challenges in Hong Kong and beyond.