       Smart Water Meters, which has been launched recently in the market, help in identifying and reporting the water consumption data at various levels. The information captured is transferred to a computer based system through wireless communication. Thus, the information can be used for efficient water planning (water restrictions), distributing water usage in peak times (off-peak, peak), capacity planning, use/time based costing (smart tariffs), and better operations management.
     The benefits of implementing Smart Water Meters to both the user and utility providers are tremendous. It facilitates faster and more efficient meter reading, theft detection, leaks, remote monitoring, etc, for the provider. The consumers benefit from knowing the usage patterns, low off peak costs, detecting of household leaks, etc.
       The market for Smart Water Meters is gaining ground with many governments encouraging its usage. Further, popularity of Smart Energy Meters, climate change awareness and interest from leading IT players in promoting water management are driving the market. Although, at present, the Smart Water Meters market trails behind the market of Smart Energy Meters, it is forecast to gain significant growth rates by the end of 2010 and 2011.
       However, there are factors such as high cost, return on investment, availability of infrastructure and low awareness about water shortage problems among consumers that are inhibiting the growth of the Smart Water Meter market.
       The report by TechNavio Insights forecasts the size of the global smart water meters market over the period 2008-2012. It segments the market into three geographic regions: Americas, APAC and EMEA, representing the market size and forecast for each of these regions. Further, it discusses the key market trends, drivers and challenges of the global smart water meters market and profiles some of the key vendors of this industry.