Abstract
Energy use in water supply systems represents a significant portion of the global energy consumption. The electricity consumption due to the water pumping represents the highest proportion of the energy costs in these systems. This paper presents several comparative studies of energy efficiency in water distribution systems considering distinct configurations of the networks and also considers implementation of the variable-speed pumps. The main objective of this study is the energy optimisation of urban systems using optimal network configurations that reduce energy consumption and improve energy efficiency. The paper describes in detail four strategies for improving energy efficiency of water pumping: control systems to vary pump speed drive according to water demand, pumped storage tanks, intermediary pumping stations integrated in the network, and elevated storage tanks floating on the system. The improving energy efficiency of water pumping is briefly reviewed providing a representative real case study. In addition, a different approach for the hydraulic analysis of the networks and the determination of the optimal location of a pumped storage tank is provided. Finally, this study compares the results of the application of four water supply strategies to a real case in Romania. The results indicate high potential operating costs savings.
Highlights
As a vital part of water supply systems, water distribution networks represent one of the largest infrastructure assets of industrial society
Water distribution systems equipped with pumping stations are characterised by energy consumption greater than 60% of the energy consumed by the operation of the entire supply system of large urban centres [6]
The main aim of the paper is to search for possible optimal network configurations that reduce electricity consumption and improve energy efficiency using potential elements and control systems to vary pump speed drive according to water demand
Summary
As a vital part of water supply systems, water distribution networks represent one of the largest infrastructure assets of industrial society. According to Watergy [1], approximately 2% to 3% of the worldwide electricity consumption is used for pumping in water supply systems, while 80%–90% of this consumption is absorbed by motor-pump sets [2]. Most water distribution systems require the operation of pumps to deliver the necessary quantity of water with the adequate pressure to the final consumers. As reported by Bene et al [4] and Vilanova and Balestieri [5], the electricity used to pump water is a significant part of the total operation in water supply systems. Water distribution systems equipped with pumping stations are characterised by energy consumption greater than 60% of the energy consumed by the operation of the entire supply system of large urban centres [6]. A great increase in the energetic system load occurs especially during peak water consumption hours
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
