Scope of the contrqact whwen it went out to tender specified that the provision of innovative technology for satellite imagery leakage detection services would be used to help the water company to achieve its leakage targets.

Services required were for Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensor (or equivalent) satellite imagery for leakage detection. NI Water were looking for a supplier to provide satellite technology with the ability to scan for ground saturation and displays areas of potential leakage.

The contract, which was signed yesterday, has been awarded to Tyneside-based firm Origin Tech Ltd.

The contract will run from 5 March 2026 to 4 March 2029, with further possible extension options to 4 March 2033.

Suez Advanced Solutions UK Ltd was also in the bidding for the contract.