Northumbrian Water announces progress in the development and testing of Barnacle - a new smart device able to detect water leaks and potential issues with water supply before consumers are even aware there is a problem - in collaboration with CGI.

Project Barnacle’s idea and concept was the result of last year’s CGI-led design sprint “Smart Objectives - Smart devices are filling up our homes. How can we improve customers' lives by making the most of Smart technology?” at the NWG Innovation Festival in Newcastle.

Andy Baynes, CGI’s Director Consulting Services said: “This is a great example of how today’s smart technology can be leveraged to help tackle one of the water industry’s hardest challenges.

Partnering with Northumbrian Water to take one of the exciting ideas from last year’s Innovation Festival and develop a working prototype has been a rewarding experience for all involved.

With longer term water shortages becoming a cause for increasing concern, it is tremendous to be able to apply technology in a way that is so beneficial not only to Northumbrian Water customers but also to wider society.”

Read the full press release for more details.