A Review of Energy Assessment Methodology for Water Supply Systems

Jedrzej Bylka,Tomasz Mroz

doi:10.3390/en12234599

Abstract

Energy assessment is one of the most important parts of water utility performance evaluation. In recent years, many methods for the evaluation of energy transformation in water distribution systems have been presented in the literature. The methods vary in terms of the scope and aim of assessment. The main objective of this paper was to give a review and comparative analysis of the methods for assessing the energy efficiency of water supply systems, which are described in the scientific literature and technical standards. Because the energy assessment of water supply systems is performed for different purposes, it is not possible to indicate one universal method. The main aim of the research was to present and analyze the methods currently in use. The review of different performance assessment methodologies provided information on issues related to the classification of methods, energy balancing, determination of reference values for performance assessment, the use of supporting computer tools, and the importance of data reliability. Gaps, challenges, and possibilities for future research were also described.

Highlights

Water supply has a crucial role in urban development
The performance of a water utility may be assessed by different stakeholders, including water utility managers, local authorities, regulatory offices, environmental protection agencies, customers, development banks, non-governmental agencies, etc
Because the energy assessment of water supply systems is performed for different purposes, it is not possible to indicate one universal method

Summary

Introduction

Due to the development of cities and population growth, the demand for electrical energy for water supply purposes is continually increasing. The performance of a water utility may be assessed by different stakeholders, including water utility managers (who are interested in optimizing processes in their systems), local authorities (which are usually responsible for the water supply and maybe the owners of water utility assets), regulatory offices (which monitor levels of service, water prices, and service quality), environmental protection agencies (responsible for protecting natural resources for future generations), customers (who are interested in good quality of service and low prices), development banks (which provide subsidies and loans to utilities), non-governmental agencies, etc. The principles and methods of evaluation of enterprises depend on the purpose and scope of that evaluation During such evaluation, energy assessment should always be included as an important part

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Discussion

Conclusion