AWWA JAW72858

Water distribution systems traditionally have been designed and operated to consistently supply water of acceptable quality, in sufficient quantity, at appropriate pressure, as economically as possible. Significant energy is used to move water from one location to another via pumps, but some of that energy is lost through pipe friction, across control valves, and at customer taps. As awareness of climate change has increased, utilities are reevaluating their system operation and design with the objective of minimizing environmental impacts. To achieve this goal requires an accurate assessment of current energy use in order to recognize potential sources of energy savings and effectively manage carbon emissions associated with water supply and distribution. This article introduces a powerful approach to help water providers perform an energy audit of their distribution system. By optimizing system performance for maximum energy cost savings while preserving system hydraulic integrity and reliability, utilities can reduce both operating costs and their carbon footprint.

Includes 15 references, tables, figures.