The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has embarked on its first smart metering deployment, partnering with Itron, Inc. and Pacific Technologies to modernize its water operations and reduce losses across its network. The rollout, which began in May 2025 and is scheduled for completion in Q3 2025, marks a milestone in the utility’s digital transformation.
The project involves upgrading existing meters with Itron mechanical meters fitted with Cyble communications modules. With their simple clip-on design, the modules transform conventional meters into smart devices, enabling automated data collection through Itron’s cloud-based Temetra solution. This will eliminate manual meter reading and provide WAF with a comprehensive, real-time view of water consumption.
One of WAF’s key challenges is non-revenue water, which it estimates at 47% of production. The new system will deliver advanced data analytics to help pinpoint leaks and apparent losses, a crucial step toward achieving the five outcomes of WAF’s Water Sector Strategy 2050: clean water, safe sanitation, livability and sustainability, financial sustainability, and a skilled workforce.
“We have a long-term vision for the future of water in Fiji,” said Josateki Sivo, head of customer metering and installation at WAF. “One key benefit of deploying Itron’s Cyble module is that it’s scalable. This allows us to expand our smart metering program gradually, based on our priorities and budget.”
Danish Khalil, general manager of Pacific Technologies (New Zealand) Limited, called the initiative “a monumental milestone,” adding: “The simplicity of the installation will enable us to quickly see benefits, including reducing and identifying non-revenue water loss.”
Itron emphasized that its solution is built for Fiji’s coastal conditions, where salt spray can corrode infrastructure. “Our Cyble module can handle diverse environments and is resistant to corrosion, contaminants and temperature,” said Justin Patrick, Itron’s senior vice president of Device Solutions.
