Bellagio installs IoT solution to conserve water

MGM Resorts International has partnered with Apana on a water conservation program at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. WaterStart connected the technology company with MGM and the Southern Nevada Water Authority. This initial project involves connecting Apana’s IoT technology to the casino’s water network in order to provide real-time, actionable insight about leaks and irregular use to hotel engineering staff through the company's analytics software.

Apana’s sensors and water meters will help MGM’s facilities management team at the Bellagio gain understanding into operating efficiencies, provide asset protection and enhance its commitment to conservation and sustainability.

“This is an innovative project that will allow us to advance our existing water conservation initiatives significantly through a better understanding of exactly when, where and how much water goes through a multitude of individual systems in our facilities,” said Chris Magee, MGM Resorts VP of sustainable facilities. “It compliments MGM’s recognized energy data analytics platform so that we can identify critical areas of water conservation by turning data into meaningful actions.”

Apana and MGM have identified several critical areas within the Bellagio where opportunities may exist to increase water efficiency. These areas include hot water loops, cooling towers, pools and the iconic fountain. Apana has helped companies achieve water reductions of 18-25 percent in these types of systems in more than 500 sites globally.

WaterStart helped bring Apana to Nevada with funding in part by SNWA. The project includes a 36-month pilot study during which Apana’s meters and technology will collect, analyze and communicate water use data. The system will alert facility management to issues, providing real-time water use analytics for faster troubleshooting and resolution. Installation of Apana technology is complete, and monitoring is underway.

“While the resort sector is among the most water efficient industries in Southern Nevada—consuming only three percent of our water supply while employing 22 percent of our local workforce—we are asking all sectors of our community to do more to conserve water,” said SNWA GM John Entsminger. “Resort properties have large, complex water systems and insights gained from this pilot will help us to identify ways to further improve water efficiency and reduce demands.”