Perex Decision support system for water management

The Challenge

As part of the PEREX 4.0 program, the Walloon Region sought to modernize the operational management of its 400 km inland waterway network. The primary challenge was to develop a real-time decision-support tool capable of optimizing the control of dozens of hydraulic structures to enhance flood and drought resilience, ensure navigability, support energy production, and protect the environment. The system needed to integrate complex hydrological data and provide actionable control strategies across a geographically dispersed and operationally diverse infrastructure.

The Solution

Tractebel, through its subsidiary IMDC, developed and deployed ORHYX, an intelligent waterway management system designed to optimize the operation of hydraulic structures across the network. ORHYX performs over 100,000 hydraulic simulations every 30 minutes, enabling operators to make informed decisions through a tailor-made web interface. The system enhances coherence in river control by integrating optimal regulation parameters and simplifying operation and maintenance. Initially deployed on the Basse-Sambre with eight structures, ORHYX is now operational at the PEREX center in Namur and is being expanded to include 11 additional structures on the Meuse.

The Impact

ORHYX marks a new era in digital waterway management, providing Wallonia with a powerful tool to anticipate and respond to hydrological events in real time. By combining predictive modeling with user-driven control, the system improves flood safety, ensures waterway navigability, and supports sustainable energy and environmental management. Its deployment strengthens the region’s resilience to climate variability and positions Tractebel as a leader in smart infrastructure solutions for integrated water resource management.