Best economical hybrid energy solution: Model development and case study of a WDS in Portugal

This work aims at the development of an integrated model for analysis and optimization of operating strategies of Water Distribution Systems (WDS), taking into consideration economical-hydraulic-power performances. For this purpose, a software tool has been developed based on the following procedures: (i) an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to determine the best economical hybrid energy system; (ii) for the ANN training process an energy Configuration type and Economical base Simulator model (CES) is used; (iii) as well a Hydraulic and Power Simulator model (HPS) to describe the hydraulic system behaviour; (iv) a performance assessment tool based on an optimization module to minimize pumping costs and maximize the hydraulic reliability and energy efficiency is then implemented. The Artificial Neural Network uses scenarios with only grid supply, grid combined with hydro-turbine, or with wind turbine and a mutual solution, with hydro and wind turbine. The results obtained show how the model is useful for decision support solutions in the planning of sustainable hybrid energy solutions that can be applied to water distribution systems or others existent hydro-systems, allowing the improvement of the global energy efficiency. A real case study of a small WDS in Portugal is analyzed.

► Integrated model for optimization the operating strategies of WDS.
► Energy efficiency in water sectors based on economical-hydraulic-power performances.
► Development of renewable hybrid solutions for energy alternatives.