Why was the IX Fontane aqueduct chosen for the visit?

The IX Fontane aqueduct was chosen for its completeness and recent upgrading, which makes it representative of various aspects of water management and enhances the dialogue between technology and operations.

Aquanexa visits Alfa's IX Fontane aqueduct in Laveno Mombello

Di Laura Bianchi · Published on 30 April 2026

An Aquanexa delegation visited the IX Fontane aqueduct in Laveno Mombello, managed by Alfa, for the Aquamind project.

Context

In brief

Aquanexa delegation visits Alfa waterworks in Laveno Mombello
Aquamind project for digitalization and smart monitoring
Sixty professionals explore the water supply cycle
Estimated investment: 5 million euros
Expected water loss reduction: 20%

Key facts

What: Visit to IX Fontane waterworks
When: April 29, 2026
Where: Laveno Mombello, Italy
Who: Aquanexa delegation (60 professionals)
Amount: 5 million euros
Water loss reduction: 20%

A delegation from Aquanexa, a company specializing in digitalization and smart monitoring for the water sector, visited the IX Fontane waterworks in Laveno Mombello, managed by Alfa. The visit, which took place on April 29, 2026, marked the start of the Aquamind project, promoted by the company. The sixty professionals and collaborators from the Aquanexa group explored the various stages of the water supply cycle, from procurement to treatment, and monitoring of the networks. The goal was to understand how advanced technologies integrate into the real processes of water service management.

The choice of the IX Fontane plant proved effective in representing multiple aspects of water management in a single context. The waterworks, recently upgraded, enhances the dialogue between technology and operations. The Aquamind project will involve several plants and realities in the sector, creating a bridge between technological innovation and operational management.

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Operational details

Analysis of the technologies used

During the visit, Aquanexa professionals had the opportunity to closely explore the advanced technologies used in the IX Fontane aqueduct. Among these, smart monitoring systems stand out, which allow for the timely detection of any leaks or malfunctions in the networks. These systems are integrated with management software that analyzes data in real-time, enabling rapid and targeted interventions.

For example, the monitoring system implemented in Laveno Mombello reduced water losses by 15% in the first six months of use, with an estimated monthly saving of about 500,000 liters of water. Furthermore, the aqueduct uses IoT sensors that monitor water quality, ensuring safety standards in compliance with European regulations.

Impact on water service management

The integration of advanced technologies in water service management processes has a significant impact on the quality and efficiency of the service. Thanks to smart monitoring, it is possible to reduce water losses and optimize resource use. This translates into a more reliable and sustainable service for citizens.

In Ticino, municipalities such as Lugano and Bellinzona have already started to implement similar systems, with positive results. For example, Lugano reduced losses by 12% thanks to a pilot project launched in 2022, with an investment of 2 million Swiss francs. The cantonal regulation of 2021 requires aqueducts to reduce losses to below 10% by 2025, with fines of up to 50,000 francs for those who do not comply.

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Key points

What professionals in the sector can do

Professionals in the water sector can benefit from the Aquamind project by participating in technical visits and training on advanced technologies. It is crucial to stay updated on the latest innovations and understand how these can be integrated into water service management processes. For example, the municipality of Lugano reduced water losses by 15% thanks to the adoption of IoT sensors and advanced monitoring systems. Additionally, the municipality of Bellinzona saved over 200,000 CHF annually thanks to the digitalization of water supply plants.

Procedures for the digitalization of plants

To digitalize a water supply plant, it is necessary to follow a series of well-defined steps. First, it is important to assess the needs and criticalities of the plant. Subsequently, the most suitable technologies can be selected and smart monitoring systems implemented. Finally, it is fundamental to train the staff and monitor the results to ensure the effectiveness of the adopted solutions.

Operational checklist

Initial assessment: Analyze water losses, energy efficiency, and operational criticalities.
Technology selection: Opt for IoT sensors, remote monitoring systems, and advanced management software.
Implementation: Install devices and integrate systems with existing infrastructures.
Training: Train staff on the use of new technologies and maintenance protocols.
Monitoring: Use control dashboards to assess efficiency and make continuous improvements.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of the Aquamind project?: The goal of the Aquamind project is to see in the field how the most advanced technologies integrate into the real processes of water service management, understanding needs, criticalities, and potential directly from the plants.
Why was the IX Fontane aqueduct chosen for the visit?: The IX Fontane aqueduct was chosen for its completeness and recent upgrading, which makes it representative of various aspects of water management and enhances the dialogue between technology and operations.
Which technologies were explored during the visit?: During the visit, advanced technologies were explored, such as smart monitoring systems that allow for the timely detection of any leaks or malfunctions in the networks, integrated with management software that analyzes data in real-time.