Fibsen’s PipeNet project is an R&D initiative focused on developing a system to deploy smart sensors inside pressurized water pipelines, with the aim of enabling advanced monitoring of real networks while minimizing disruption to citizens and reducing environmental impact.

The need for solutions like PipeNet is increasingly clear: leakage in distribution networks leads to significant losses of water and energy, increases operating and maintenance costs, and—during drought periods—further stresses water supply systems. In addition, traditional sensor and cable deployment often requires invasive civil works, street occupation, noise, and emissions associated with heavy machinery, and in many cases involves operational maneuvers that can temporarily affect service. A solution that allows networks to be instrumented more efficiently and in a way that is compatible with day-to-day operations helps accelerate sector digitalization and strengthens infrastructure resilience.

The project, titled “Development of a smart sensor deployment system inside pressurized water pipelines with no social or environmental impact”, focuses on improving the implementation of sensing technologies in operational networks, addressing key challenges such as installation complexity, the need for invasive interventions, and potential service disruption.

PipeNet is part of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Programme for the Valencian Community 2021–2027, under the SME R&D Projects Programme (PIDI-CV). The project is financially supported by the European Union and carried out with the collaboration of IVACE (Valencian Institute of Business Competitiveness), whose backing is proving essential to advance the development and validation of this technology.