Antigua and Barbuda is moving ahead with major water upgrades. Additionally, the government plans to improve storage, monitoring and distribution systems nationwide.

Public Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas shared the update Tuesday night on Pointe FM’s Taking Stock programme. He said the long-term goal remains a reliable 24-hour water supply.

Nicholas explained that the government is investing in smarter technology and stronger infrastructure. As a result, APUA expects to manage water production more efficiently.

One major project involves a modern SCADA monitoring system. SCADA stands for supervisory control and data acquisition.

According to Nicholas, the system will improve monitoring and overall control of the water network. Furthermore, it will help manage transmission and distribution more effectively.

“A contract for approximately $2 million was awarded to a company out of Trinidad,” Nicholas said.

He explained that the company has experience building SCADA systems for the oil and gas industry.

Nicholas said the technology will help APUA track water movement across the network in real time. Consequently, officials expect more reliable delivery to homes and businesses.

“This will improve monitoring, control efficiency, and system management,” Nicholas said.

The minister also revealed plans to expand national water storage. Specifically, the government plans to add another 16 million gallons of storage capacity.

He said the additional storage will help balance demand during peak usage periods. Moreover, it should improve system reliability during shortages.

At the same time, APUA continues repairs at Potworks Dam. Nicholas said crews are fixing the leaking spillway as part of broader improvements.

In addition, the government is expanding groundwater harvesting and reverse osmosis production. These projects aim to strengthen overall water production capacity.

Nicholas said the country’s strategy focuses on production, storage, distribution and system control. Therefore, officials believe the investments will improve long-term water security.

However, he acknowledged that the transition will take time. Still, he said the projects now underway are critical for dependable water access nationwide.

The government believes the upgrades represent another important step toward solving Antigua and Barbuda’s long-standing water challenges.