Method for Calculating the Marginal Energy Intensity of Water Supply for Users

This methodology computes the marginal energy utilization for supplying individual water users based on the existing topology of the water distribution network (WDN), pipe sizes and baseline flows. By breaking down the marginal energy intensity (MEI) into components from transmission, treatment and distribution of water, stage specific cost and energy utilization can be calculated. Specifically, MEI values are calculated by backtracking a given customer's inflow to its sources, including tanks that temporarily hold and mix water. This can be modeled as a function of the time of day, accounting for embedded energy of the water system and allows utility companies to minimize operating costs while maintaining water quality. A water quality estimation tool can be combined with the above algorithm to yield a multi-objective optimization for water quality and public health.

Photo description: composition of MEI and the schematic of its computation.

Stage of Research