Exploring energy efficiency barriers and drivers In the Portuguese water sector

Abstract

While research, development, and implementation of energy efficiency measures in water and wastewater utilities are accelerating, there has been little research into the barriers and drivers to their adoption within the sector. This study presents the findings of a series of 11 semi-structured interviews conducted to Portuguese water and wastewater utilities. The results show the prioritization of quality-of-service subjects, such as reducing water losses and increasing the resilience of systems, over energy efficiency in this sector. Despite referring to financial barriers as important, the interviewees point out that the major barriers are the lack of human resources, lack of internal technical skills, and the bureaucratic public procurement processes. The main drivers highlighted in this study are the existence of awareness campaigns and dissemination of good practices, the existence of energy service companies, and the availability of funding, either public or specific financing programs with accessible rates. The results of this research can help define sector-oriented policies fostering the adoption of measures and strategies that help improve the energy performance and resilience of water and wastewater utilities worldwide.