Impact of Urban Development on Energy Use in a Distribution System

Abstract

This research examined the effect of urban development patterns on the energy use of a complex water distribution system in the United States. The energy inputs and outputs to each pressure zone were quantified under historical expansion and urban intensification scenarios. Results showed that the lift energy increased in zones farthest from the river source. Frictional energy loss was highest in the zone nearest the source because system pipes conveyed flows to meet demands in all zones. While the zone nearest the source had a higher connectivity, the frictional energy loss in this zone was comparable to that in zones near the edge of the system with a lower level of connectivity. In the intensification scenario, the reallocation of demand from the edge to the urban core of the system decreased energy use by 50%, reduced frictional losses from 22 to 16%, and increased the energy supplied to users.