Abstract
In the Gambia and across sub-Saharan Africa, reliable access to clean water and electrical power is constrained. As most rural water supply systems are built, enhanced understanding of efficiencies and optimisation is required. Here, methods of integrating estimations of power outputs from solar photovoltaic arrays into gravity-fed water distribution network modelling are investigated. The effects of powering a rural water distribution system that is replenished with groundwater pumps that use solar power are investigated, along with the effect of this on other network design decisions. The water storage tank and pipework of a rural community with an estimated 2800 people and 28 standpipes from a borehole was selected. EPANET modelling software and genetic algorithms were used to run network optimisation simulations of: water tank location, elevation and volume; pipe diameter and configuration; and optimal system design in terms of cost. Different scenarios were produced, including supply, demand and required water storage curves, which could have practical application for rural water distribution system design. Indicative costs for theoretical water distribution networks will be useful for decision makers and planners.
Highlights
Rural water supply in sub-Saharan Africa is largely ineffectual
The effects of powering a rural water distribution system that is replenished with groundwater pumps that use solar power are investigated, along with the effect of this on other network design decisions
Indicative costs for theoretical water distribution networks will be useful for decision makers and planners
Summary
Rural water supply in sub-Saharan Africa is largely ineffectual. Sustainable Development Goal 6.1 aims to “by 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all”. It is suggested that rural water supply should provide 50 litres of water per capita per day [6] Part of this challenge is sufficient provision of electricity supply required for pumping water from the aquifer. This is a particular problem in rural sub-Saharan Africa where grid supply is limited. Extracted water is stored in an elevated tank, providing a pressure head for distribution through a pipe network to standpipes. The challenges of this type of system, and methods for mitigating them, will be investigated using a combination.
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