Transforming Revenue Generation: Leveraging Drone Technology for Efficient Meter Reading in Disaster/Flood-prone Areas

In the wake of natural disasters or emergencies, accurate meter readings are crucial for utility companies to maintain revenue streams and ensure fair billing. However, traditional manual meter reading faces significant challenges in disaster-affected areas, including accessibility issues, safety concerns, and resource constraints. This study carried out by Ghana Water Limited explores the potential of integrating drone technology into meter reading operations, with a focus on parts of the Greater Accra region that are prone to flooding and other environmental hazards. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and technological advancements, this research aims to provide a roadmap for the successful implementation of drone-assisted meter reading in disaster zones, with a particular emphasis on Tetegu, a community in the Greater Accra region of Ghana which is vulnerable to flooding due to its coastal location and low-lying nature. A converter and a mobile device were affixed to the drone donated by the WaterWorx project after software and hardware configurations were completed. By the end of the exercise, 553 meters were read in just fifteen minutes, a task that will take 5-7 days or more using the traditional methods. The scatter plot gave an R² of 0.9897 while the correlation (R) between the Drone readings and the Manual readings was 0.994818. By leveraging the agility and versatility of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), utility companies can streamline meter reading processes, enhance data accuracy, and minimize disruptions to revenue generation. Key words: Drones, Revenue, Meter Reading, Flood-prone areas