Innovation

Initially, Alta Group wanted to reduce the number of complaints from customers. The company noticed that oftentimes complaints were the result of improper operational conditions. For example, treatment plants would be used under 400 cubic meters per day, while the configuration of the devices supported 100 cubic meters of throughput. So, in order to combat these complaints, Alta began installing monitoring devices in their treatment plants. Data was used to show their clients that problems with plants were a result of wrong usage and what exactly has happened. 

However, pointing out the real reason for the device's failure was not enough - Alta also needed to satisfy the needs of their customers. So more monitoring features were added to analyze performance of treatment plants and use that data to gain actionable insight. Remote access to performance indicators allowed support crews to operate on up to 10 plants simultaneously, without having to physically attend them, unless something was broken. For comparison, before the innovation, crews supported just 1 plant and had to be on-site. Mikhail, the Founder of Alta Group, told us, "I think there are two unique components. The first is the bio-adaptive technology ... and the second ... lies in the IT plane, just in the field of remote monitoring, control and diagnostics of equipment". This new technology significantly increased the efficiency of human resources, while also creating better working conditions for employees.

In the future, the company aims to make their devices smarter. As mentioned, Alta wants to extend the range of used detectors, as well as employ more data analysis techniques in order to predict failures, and give actionable advice to technologists, who manage customers’ water treatment plants. Ultimately, this innovation reflects the mission of the company - “Clear water technologies” - by utilizing technological solutions to achieve operational excellence of their water treatment.

Inspiration

The genesis of Alta Group’s innovations stemmed from the challenges posed by clients’ misuse of wastewater treatment facilities, such as overloading systems beyond their capacity. To maintain their reputation and ensure reliable operations, the company developed remote monitoring systems with robust data recording capabilities. This approach not only safeguarded their credibility but also laid the foundation for more advanced, self-diagnostic technologies. Mikhail mentions, "It actually started with the defense, and further, of course, ... we had to achieve the [desired by the customer] result anyway, ... we needed to remotely help them to reach the necessary indicators of wastewater treatment". Mikhail credits the team’s dedication to creating sustainable and efficient solutions as a driving force behind their success. Their commitment to ecological well-being and the comfort of future generations serves as a key source of inspiration.

Overall impact

Alta Group’s advancements have revolutionized the wastewater treatment industry by:

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

By improving the efficiency and reliability of wastewater treatment, Alta Group contributes directly to ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Their autonomous and predictive systems help maintain high standards of water quality, reducing pollutants and enhancing resource sustainability.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Alta Group’s emphasis on digital twins, modular designs, and AI-driven management systems exemplifies resilient infrastructure and innovative approaches. These technologies not only modernize the wastewater treatment industry but also enable scalable and adaptive solutions suitable for diverse regions globally.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

By optimizing wastewater management, the company supports the development of sustainable cities. Efficient wastewater systems reduce environmental risks and improve public health, fostering cleaner and more resilient urban environments.

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Alta Group’s shift to need-based maintenance reduces resource wastage and promotes responsible consumption of materials and energy. Their innovative approaches minimize the environmental footprint of wastewater treatment processes. 

SDG 13: Climate Action

Efficient wastewater treatment systems contribute to climate resilience by reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with inefficient processes. Alta Group’s innovations support the adoption of climate-friendly technologies and practices.

In summary, Alta Group’s innovations and vision not only address current industry pain points but also pave the way for scalable and sustainable solutions worldwide. Mikhail mentioned that "The team is motivated mainly to achieve long-term, positive, non-material goals, i.e. the ecological well-being of our country and the specific family of each team member." Their approach exemplifies how technology can align economic efficiency with environmental stewardship.

Business benefit

The innovation benefits customer experience by allowing Alta to preventively notice equipment malfunctioning and respond to that. Mikhail Pukemo noted that "Now this team, instead of being at one treatment plant, can service 10 times more treatment plants, i.e. from 1 to 10 treatment plants, thus increasing the efficiency of the sector personnel in terms of maintenance, operation of sewage treatment plants". Also, it allows the company to make customer service more efficient by allowing support crews to handle 10 plants at a time, compared to just one before the innovation

Social and environmental benefit

Impact of Alta Group and their innovation is reflected through SDGs they contribute to. Being a water treatment company, they directly contribute to SDGs 3 and 6. In regards to SDG 3, water treatment technologies contribute to a healthier environment in general. Alta’s innovative approach to water treatment plants engineering and maintenance highlights commitment to targets of SDG9 and, in particular, target 9.4. Company advances our progress towards SDG 12 through sustainable resource usage and SDG 13 through climate-friendly technological water-treatment processes.

Aside from contribution to SDG goals, a more immediate social impact was on employees of the company. Crews, which support customers’ water treatment plants, can now operate remotely, which creates better working conditions. Proactively monitoring the health of plants in their zone of responsibility allows them to take preventive action, which potentially reduces stress and dangers of operating reactively.

Interview

Mikhail Pukemo, Founder