Enhancing Model of IoT Based on Smart Water Meter and Billing System a Case Study of Busasamana Sector

This dissertation focuses on developing an IoT-based smart water metering and billing system designed for Rwanda, with a case study in the Busasamana Sector. The goal of this system is to improve water usage monitoring, automate billing, and enhance overall management efficiency. The system integrates several IoT technologies to ensure accurate water measurement and billing. It consists of a NodeMCU microcontroller, which processes data from a water flow sensor that measures the exact amount of water consumed. The data is then stored in a MySQL database, which calculates billing amounts based on consumption. One of the key advantages of this system is its ability to automate the billing process, eliminating delays and ensuring that charges are accurate. This prevents inflated bills and aligns with the WASAC (Water and Sanitation Corporation) billing regulations. With real-time monitoring, users can track their water usage, making the billing system more transparent and efficient. To enhance security and accountability, the system can detect unauthorized water consumption. If the system identifies illegal usage, it notifies the relevant authorities, helping to minimize water theft. Additionally, the system includes a relay and solenoid valve that automatically cuts off the water supply if a payment delay exceeds five days. The system is designed to be energy-efficient. A solar-powered power bank ensures that it operates continuously, even in areas with unstable electricity. An LCD screen is included to display real-time water usage, while a manual button switch allows users to fetch water when necessary, providing flexibility in case of emergencies. Furthermore, a keypad is integrated as an input device, allowing users to specify the exact level of water they need to fetch, enhancing user control and preventing wastage. To keep users informed, the system sends monthly SMS notifications detailing the amount of water consumed and the corresponding bill. A PHP-based website has also been developed to allow users to check their water usage, view their billing history, and make payments online. By leveraging IoT and renewable energy, this smart water management system aims to improve billing accuracy, reduce operational costs, and promote sustainable water resource management in the Busasamana Sector and beyond.