An innovative project is using Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications to overcome connectivity challenges in rural and remote areas, setting a model for environmental monitoring advancements.
Ceredigion County Council says it is ‘proud’ to be part of the groundbreaking Rural Connectivity Accelerator (RCA) project, funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
The RCA project is already making a difference by providing real-time data on water quality in the River Teifi. The information, which includes nutrient and phosphate levels, is vital for conserving biodiversity and managing the ecosystem’s health. This enables researchers and local authorities to monitor changes and take action when needed.
Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, said,
“Beyond improving connectivity, the RCA project offers benefits like up-to-date environmental data from our rivers. This can help river users stay informed, boost conservation efforts, and support future planning. It’s a holistic approach that benefits our community and the environment. It also demonstrates how rural connectivity initiatives can transform our region.”
Supported by DSIT, the project is being carried out in collaboration with technology leaders, along with stakeholders such as Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and dedicated local citizen scientists.
The LEO-based system will be tested rigorously from autumn 2024 to March 2025, ensuring it performs reliably even in the harsh weather conditions typical of the season. If the trial is successful, the system could be used beyond the initial phase, collecting data from monitoring stations along the main River Teifi and its tributaries. This expanded reach aims to offer a more complete picture of the river’s nutrient levels and water quality.
Alongside the satellite technology, local citizen scientists will continue their essential work. By contributing ad hoc water samples, they will enrich the data, adding depth and variation to the monitoring efforts. All of this information will be displayed through an interactive dashboard, providing an accessible, detailed view of the river’s nutrient profile for stakeholders. This dashboard is a core part of the Nutrient Monitoring Project, which the RCA programme supports.
If LEO technologies prove effective under real-world conditions, their use could be expanded to other areas, enhancing existing networks like the Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN). This would support various sectors such as environmental services, highways, and businesses by providing reliable connectivity for Internet of Things (IoT) sensors in even the most remote parts of the county. This could address current coverage gaps, enabling more comprehensive service delivery and data collection.
