Development of a tool for the optimization and regulation of hydraulic microgeneration systems adapted to the demand and flow variations aimed at the clean energy recovery in water supply networks

Abstract

[EN] Incorporating energy recovery systems using renewable energies in water distribution systems is being analysed and implemented to improve sustainability, ensuring the SDG-7. Pumps working as turbines are an innovative technology, and a powerful tool to reach this energy improvement. This research develops a methodology that enables the development of an analysis tool for the optimized regulation of an energy recovery system using Simulink MATLAB. The said methodology is capable of processing variable operation systems (VOS), which considers the flow variation through time. Also, it considered the variation of the rotational speed of the machines linked directly to the efficiency aiming to maximize the recovered energy. Finally, the methodology was applied to a real case study defining the signal parameters to the regulation equipment in terms of numbers of pumps working as turbines (PATs) in operation, rotational speed, and the degree of opening of the pressure reducing valves installed. The tool contemplates the energy analysis, which shows the recovery of 60% of the supplied energy in the system. This daily recovered energy was above 1898 kWh, and it contributed to an increase in efficiency and sustainability.