WEGoT Utility Solutions

WEGoT Utility Solutions

In a country where water scarcity looms large, WEGoT Utility Solutions was born out of a mission to bridge the gap between water utility management and end-users through real-time data. Founded in 2015 by four engineers with diverse skill sets, WEGoT has grown from a small startup to a pioneering force in smart water management, deploying its state-of-the-art ultrasonic sensors in over 40,000 apartments and managing more than 30 million square feet of commercial real estate. With a typical deployment reducing water demand by over 30%, WEGoT has not only saved over 5 billion liters of water but also set a new standard for water conservation in India. By empowering users with granular and reliable data, WEGoT is revolutionizing the way water is managed and consumed.
Key Details
City
Chennai
Founded In
2015
Founders
Vijay, Mohideen, Abilash Haridass, Sundeep
Category
energy
Website
Click here

WEGoT Utility Solutions Foundation Story

WEGoT Utility Solutions was founded to address a critical issue in India: water scarcity. The company's journey began with a clear vision to make a difference in how people use water. Here is a look at the early days and the founding team.

Vision and Early Days

The founders of WEGoT Utility Solutions grew up in Chennai, a city often plagued by acute water shortages. This personal experience drove their determination to find a solution. In 2015, they started working on an innovative approach to reduce water consumption through behavioral change and technological innovation[1][2].

Their vision was to create a system that would provide real-time data on water usage, helping people make informed decisions about their water consumption. This vision has been the driving force behind the company's growth and development.

Water scarcity is a significant problem in India, with many cities facing severe shortages. WEGoT aimed to change this by introducing a smart water management system that could track and manage water usage efficiently.

Founding Team Background

The company was founded by four engineers: Vijay, Mohideen, Abilash, and Sundeep. Each of them brought different yet complementary skill sets to the table. This diverse background helped in developing a comprehensive solution to water management[1].

Abilash Haridass, one of the co-founders and the CEO, has been instrumental in guiding the company's growth strategy. His experience and leadership have been crucial in the company's success.

The founding team's combined expertise in engineering and technology enabled them to develop an IoT-based water management system that is both precise and efficient.

WEGoT Utility Solutions Business Evolution

Since its inception, WEGoT Utility Solutions has undergone significant growth and evolution. Here’s a look at how the company has developed over the years.

From Initial Concept to Current State

The initial concept was to create an IoT-based water management system that could track real-time water consumption. This idea has evolved into a full-fledged platform that provides data-driven insights and automated decision-making tools[1][2].

Today, WEGoT’s system is used in over 70,000 homes and 40 million square feet of commercial space. It has helped save more than 6 billion liters of water, making a substantial impact on water conservation in India.

The company’s growth has been driven by its innovative approach and the adoption of its solutions across various sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial domains.

Key Growth Milestones

WEGoT Utility Solutions has achieved several key milestones that have propelled its growth. One significant milestone was winning the National Startup Awards 2021, which recognized the company’s innovative approach to water management[1]).

In 2019, the company participated in the CBRE DisrupTech challenge, which further enhanced its credibility and facilitated strategic partnerships. This event was a catalyst for the company’s rapid growth and expansion[2]).

The company has also raised significant funding, including $2 million in seed funding in 2019 and an additional $1.5 million in 2021. This funding has supported technological advancements and market penetration[2]).

  • Won National Startup Awards 2021
  • Participated in CBRE DisrupTech 2019
  • Raised $2 million in seed funding in 2019
  • Raised an additional $1.5 million in 2021
  • Expanded to 7 cities in India

Product Portfolio Expansion

WEGoT Utility Solutions has continuously expanded its product portfolio to cater to different sectors. The company’s flagship product, WEGoT Aqua, uses IoT-powered ultrasonic sensors for precise water measurement and cloud-based tracking[4]).

The system provides real-time analytics and alerts via user-friendly apps, helping to identify leaks and theft promptly. This has been particularly useful in commercial and industrial settings where water usage is high.

The company has also innovated its business model by offering the product for free and charging only a monthly subscription fee. This approach has made the solution more accessible and has led to increased adoption[1]).

  • WEGoT Aqua: IoT-based water management system
  • Real-time analytics and alerts via apps
  • Free product with monthly subscription fee
  • Customizable for varying pipe widths
  • Used in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors

WEGoT Utility Solutions Technology Infrastructure

WEGoT Utility Solutions relies on advanced technology to deliver its water management solutions. Here is an overview of the company’s technology infrastructure.

Core Platform Architecture

The core of WEGoT’s technology is its IoT-based water management system. This system uses embedded water meters, IoT-based ultrasonic sensors, and cloud tracking to monitor and measure water at both source and consumption points[4]).

The system is designed to provide high precision, with the ultrasonic sensors measuring water with over 98% accuracy. This accuracy is crucial for effective water management and conservation.

The cloud-based nature of the system allows for remote monitoring and automated billing based on actual usage. This makes it convenient for users to manage their water consumption efficiently.

Security and Compliance Framework

WEGoT Utility Solutions places a strong emphasis on security and compliance. The company ensures that all data collected is secure and compliant with relevant regulations. The use of cloud services, such as AWS, helps in managing data ingestion points securely and dynamically[3]).

The company’s focus on security includes protecting user data and ensuring the integrity of the system. This is essential for maintaining trust with clients and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the solution.

Compliance with industry standards is also a priority, ensuring that the system meets all necessary requirements for data security and privacy.

Innovation in its Industry

WEGoT Utility Solutions is at the forefront of innovation in the water management sector. The company’s use of IoT and data analytics sets it apart from traditional water management systems. The ability to track real-time consumption and provide data-driven insights has revolutionized the way water is managed in India[2][4]).

The company continues to innovate, focusing on expanding its product penetration and enhancing its technology. Strategic collaborations with like-minded organizations are also key to amplifying its impact on water conservation.

WEGoT’s commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility has led to significant environmental benefits, making it a leader in the Proptech space.

  • Use of IoT and data analytics
  • Real-time consumption tracking
  • Data-driven insights
  • Strategic collaborations
  • Focus on sustainability and CSR

Company Market Impact

WEGoT Utility Solutions has made a significant impact on the market by addressing the critical issue of water conservation. Here’s how they have achieved this:

User Base Growth

WEGoT Utility Solutions has seen rapid growth in its user base. The company's IoT-based smart water meters have been adopted in over 30,000 houses across 12 cities in India. This widespread adoption is a testament to the effectiveness of their solution in managing water consumption.

The startup has expanded its reach to both residential and commercial properties. For instance, they have clients such as Brigade Appaswamy Real Estate and Casa Granade in the residential sector, and Danfoss and Ascendas in the commercial sector[7]. This diverse client base indicates the versatility and appeal of their water management system.

The user base growth is also driven by the company's ability to provide real-time data on water usage. This helps users become more accountable and reduce their water consumption. As Abilash, one of the founders, notes, "People become more accountable and decrease their consumption"[7].

Market Share Expansion

WEGoT Utility Solutions is expanding its market share by targeting various sectors. The company is focusing on residential apartments, IT parks, malls, hospitals, and industries. This broad target market allows them to address water conservation needs across different types of properties.

Their market expansion is supported by their unique selling proposition of not relying on imported equipment. Instead, they manufacture their own hardware and software, which sets them apart from competitors like Bengaluru-based companies[7].

The company's growth is also influenced by the increasing global demand for smart water management solutions. The global smart water management market is expected to grow from $11.7 billion in 2019 to $21.4 billion by 2024, at a CAGR of 12.9 percent[7].

Financial Inclusion Initiatives

WEGoT Utility Solutions has implemented a financial model that makes their solution accessible to a wide range of customers. Here are some key aspects of their financial inclusion initiatives:

The company provides its product free of cost to users. Instead, users pay a monthly fee, which ranges between Rs 149 and Rs 349 per residence. For commercial buildings, the charge is 20 paise per square foot, apart from installation charges[7].

This pricing model helps in making the water management system affordable for both residential and commercial users. It also ensures a steady revenue stream for the company.

Company Financial Journey

WEGoT Utility Solutions has had a remarkable financial journey since its inception. Here are the key highlights:

Revenue Growth Story

WEGoT Utility Solutions has recorded significant revenue growth. The company was bootstrapped with an initial investment of Rs 1 crore and has since achieved a 100 percent year-on-year growth. In the last year, they posted a revenue of Rs 7.5 crore and aim to hit the Rs 15 crore mark this year[7].

The revenue growth is attributed to the increasing adoption of their IoT-based smart water meters. The company's ability to save water and reduce consumption has attracted a large number of customers, leading to higher revenues.

The financial performance is also reflected in their operating revenue range, which is between INR 1 crore and 100 crore for the financial year ending on 31 March 2023[8].

Path to Profitability

WEGoT Utility Solutions is on a path to achieving profitability through efficient operations and a scalable business model. Here are some key points:

The company's focus on manufacturing its own hardware and software reduces dependency on external suppliers, which helps in controlling costs. This approach also enables them to customize their solutions better to meet customer needs[7].

Despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, which brought their field work to a halt, the company's Customer Happiness Team has continued to support existing customers. This commitment to customer service helps in maintaining a positive revenue stream[7].

Investment Rounds and Valuations

WEGoT Utility Solutions has not relied heavily on external investments but has managed to grow significantly through internal resources. Here are some details:

The company was bootstrapped with an initial investment of Rs 1 crore. This self-funded approach has allowed them to maintain control over their operations and make strategic decisions independently[7].

As of December 2021, the enterprise valuation of WEGoT Utility Solutions was $10 million. This valuation reflects the company's growth potential and the market's recognition of its innovative water management solutions[6].

Company Strategic Partnerships

WEGoT Utility Solutions has formed several strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings and reach. Here are some of the key partnerships:

Banking Collaborations

While specific details on banking collaborations are not available, WEGoT Utility Solutions likely partners with financial institutions to facilitate payment processes for their monthly fees and installation charges.

Such partnerships would help in streamlining the payment process, making it easier for customers to adopt and maintain the water management system.

Merchant Partnerships

WEGoT Utility Solutions partners with various property developers and facility managers to integrate their smart water meters into new and existing properties. Here are some of their notable partnerships:

  • Brigade Appaswamy Real Estate: A prominent real estate developer in India, this partnership helps WEGoT Utility Solutions expand its reach in the residential sector[7].
  • Casa Granade: Another significant residential client, this partnership underscores the company's ability to serve diverse residential needs[7].
  • Danfoss: A commercial client, this partnership highlights the company's capability to manage water consumption in large commercial spaces[7].

Technology Alliances

WEGoT Utility Solutions collaborates with technology companies to enhance its IoT-based smart water meters. Here are some aspects of these alliances:

The company uses proprietary IoT devices and software to track water usage and detect leakages. These technologies are developed in-house, which allows for better customization and integration with existing infrastructure[7].

By partnering with technology firms, WEGoT Utility Solutions can stay updated with the latest advancements in IoT and water management technologies, further improving their solutions.