Introduction
The effects of climate change are far-reaching and devastating. One of the lesser-discussed consequences is the increased risk, rate, and cost of sewage failures. As floods become more common, they overwhelm wastewater treatment systems, leading to backups and infrastructure damage. The EPA estimates that nearly $700 billion in investments is needed to maintain existing wastewater, stormwater, and other clean water pipelines over the next 20 years.
The Opportunity for Tech-Driven Solutions
Matthew Rosenthal and Billy Gilmartin, both veterans of the wastewater treatment industry, saw an opportunity to help solve the problem with technology. Five years ago, they co-founded SewerAI, which uses AI to automate data capture and defect tagging during sewer inspections.
A Brief History of SewerAI
Rosenthal started taking online courses on AI after launching two wastewater analysis and services firms. While experimenting with AI models to predict sewer defects in inspection videos, he recruited Gilmartin’s help. Today, SewerAI sells cloud-based, AI-powered subscription products designed to streamline field inspections and data management of sewer infrastructure.
Products and Features
SewerAI offers a range of products, including:
- Pioneer: Field inspectors can upload inspection data to the cloud and tag issues, which project managers can use to plan fixes.
- AutoCode: Automatically tags inspections of pipes and manholes, creating 3D models of infrastructure from videos captured on a GoPro or other camera.
The Market for AI-Assisted Pipe Inspection
SewerAI isn’t alone in the market. Rivals include:
- Subterra: Maps, analyzes, and forecasts problems with pipelines.
- ClearObject: Offers software that analyzes footage from pipe inspections for damage.
- Pallon: Develops algorithms to spot potential problems inside sewers from still images.
What Sets SewerAI Apart
According to Rosenthal, what sets SewerAI apart is the quality of its data. The company has footage of inspections of 135 million feet of pipes from municipalities and independent contractors. This large dataset allows them to train a competitive defect-detecting AI.
Sales Pitch and Fundraising
SewerAI’s sales pitch won over investors, including Innovius Capital. They poured $15 million into the company’s most recent fundraising round, bringing SewerAI’s total raised to $25 million. The cash will be used for:
- Go-to-market expansion: To reach more customers and increase adoption.
- AI model training: To continue improving the accuracy of their defect-detecting AI.
- Hiring: To grow the team and support increased demand.
- Expanding product portfolio: To offer more tools and services to customers.
Conclusion
SewerAI is continuing to grow, with an acceleration in demand for its platform. The company’s tech-driven solution aims to help municipalities and utilities proactively manage infrastructure instead of reacting to failures. As climate change continues to pose challenges, innovative solutions like SewerAI are essential for mitigating its effects.