Delivering water security for all during shale gas production

There is currently significant concern in some segments of the public about the potential impact of shale gas exploitation on water. By taking a more holistic approach to local water management, these concerns can be addressed and appropriate water infrastructure can be created which benefits local communities and the environment as well as making gas development safer and more sustainable. Concepture, along with its commercial partners WSP and academic partners Imperial College London, the University of Surrey and Cardiff University, are undertaking a study of an innovative new water management system which monitors and controls the quality of water across the locality where fracking operations are under way. Part of the management system is developed on behalf of local communities and can also be used for other freshwater services, such as flood prevention. The other part is dedicated to controlling the quality of water within a shale gas site and intended for use by the gas industry. Both systems are controlled by a 'smart' central control system, taking into account the overall needs of a catchment area and the prevailing water conditions.