Pump Scheduling Energy Optimization Models for Drinking Water Distribution Systems

Abstract

Drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) in the United States utilize approximately 2% of the nation’s total energy (DOE, 2021). The 2014 US Department of Energy (DOE)Report states 39.2 billion kWh energy is used in drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) pumping and aeration (DOE, 2014). If optimization techniques were implemented and the energy consumption were to be reduced by 10%, the saving would equate to 3.14 billion kWh annually (Mohsen, 2016). As DWDS continue to face challenges in water scarcity and rising energy cost, DWDS have shown an interest in improvement through the application of modern data science tools. This study performs a proof of concept on a coupled hydraulic and optimization model method to support engineers in optimization analysis. The joined Water Network Tool for Resilience (WNTR) hydraulic model and EPANET supports analyses through minimizing user error, automating manual processes, and increase efficiency. The WNTR hydraulic tool coupled with optimization algorithms provides hydraulic engineers an invaluable tool. The tool allows users unlimited flexibility in the desired algorithm applications and tuning parameters, which allows researchers to effectively quantify results and identify the best algorithmic approach.