Research on City Energy Conservation Basing Rainwater Utilization

Rainwater utilization has been studied in many previous researches connected with water savings and supply, few mentioning of energy conservation. The intention of this paper is to reveal the significant energy-saving function of rainwater use. The research method used in the study was case citation, which can comprehensively analyze the energy conservation upon rainwater use in the direct and indirect aspects. Direct energy savings can be achieved through adjusting the climate, long-distance water transportation and sewage treatment; while indirect energy savings can be fulfilled by saving of water and pipe, and reducing of pipe laying, pumping operation, urban flooding and non-point source pollution. The results we obtained demonstrated that rainwater utilization is an effective way to improve the environment, to enhance water utility efficiency, and to save energy.