Where there is wine – there MUST be water The wine industry in South Africa contributes around R163 billion a year to South Africa’s GDP and is amongst the top ten wine producing countries in the world. However, the industry is heavily reliant on a secure source of water throughout the value chain and with South African being a water scarce country, it is vital that water is proactively managed in this industry. Understanding the financial, social and environmental impacts of successful non-revenue projects is one way to learn more on this important issue and build a united front between all water stakeholders. Can the wine industry make a positive impact to our water resources? In answer to a question on whether there is opportunity for ‘smart metering’ technology in the water sector, Sarah M. Tibatemwa, Africa Director for the International Water Association (IWA) had this to say, “Definitely. Technology is taking up in every bit of the industry and when one considers the energy conservation, the sooner we get to smart metering the better. Unfortunately utilities in the region are still far from this as they grapple with other pertinent issues.” The issue of using smart metering is no different for water utilities in South Africa whose ultimate goal is to provide potable water and sanitation to all; therefore the wine industry can play a vital role in assisting utilities by measuring their water usage with a view to reducing consumption. Efforts can also include the treatment of winery wastewater for further use down-stream, using drip irrigation schemes, and regular surveying of groundwater/well supplies. There is more to water resource management than metering African Utility Week is serious about connecting you with solution providers offering a variety of water efficiency tools that work for both private and public sector alike, such as automated metering reading solutions and compressed air management. Save money when implementing water pressure management projects and metering for your wine estate by gaining access to specialised and leading vendors of water and energy management solutions with a FREE entry registration pass to the 13th annual African Utility Week Exhibition on 14 – 15 May at the CTICC in Cape Town. With over 250 exhibitors looking forward to welcoming you, such as: Aqua-Loc South Africa/DIEHL Metering Bentley Systems Elster Kent Metering Itron Schedule your time at the exhibition to attend the free technical workshops conveniently situated on the exhibition floor, including topics on: Using high precision multi-function meter in industrial, commercial, and grid applications by Ihab Mokhles, Products & Services Regional Manager, MEA, Elsewedy, Egypt Large energy savings through Compressed Air Management, Leak Detection and auditing by Devon Fisher, Audit Manager, Artic Driers International, South Africa Solar Rooftop projects for Large Power User’s by Claire Lockey, Marketing and Communications, SolarWorld Africa, South Africa The case for hybrid meters: discovering the benefits and where the technology is heading by Mark Shamley, MD, and Keith Bailey, Sales and Marketing Director, Elster Metering, South Africa How much water can your wine estate save? Tell us about your current water footprint reduction projects and you can stand a chance to win a CONFERENCE PASS valued at R12 800. Win a conference pass to access sessions covering topics on: NRW project as an alternative solution for increasing water supply – the Sasol case, South Africa Financial, social and environmental impacts of successful NRW projects in the world Philippines - Case study of a successful comprehensive project including maintenance of the water supply system Brazil – Physical & commercial loss reduction in a complex network, performance based project\ South Africa - Case study of water conservation program in local schools Bridging the gap between water security aspirations and economic reality Make the best decision you will Importance of ecosystem services with case studies into international environmental indices To underline the importance of effective local government in order to ensure implementation of our National Water Strategy To “hit home” the water-food-energy nexus in the African and South African context We all have an obligation to protect our water resources and at African Utility Week you will gain the knowledge and tools to make this happen. It is free to attend the exhibition but registration is required before you can meet knowledgeable people with practical advice on a range of water related tools and solutions.