Optimization procedures and benefits for sustainable water supply systems of tomorrow

Abstract

This report summarizes activities in TRUST WP4 addressing optimum operation performance of water supply systems with respect to safety, environmental impacts and cost-efficiency. Optimization of water treatment plant and distribution system has to rely on selected optimization criteria that are site and system-specific in order to cope with challenges posed by e.g. stringent regulations, consumer feedback, climate change, etc. Comprehensive knowledge of the specific characteristics, limitations and challenges of a water supply system is required in order to define available alternatives and to design and perform full-scale optimization studies and trials. The proposed optimization framework includes:(i) Mapping operational performance status that includes initial performance evaluation and comparison to model predictions, (ii)Utilizing diagnostic tools, e.g. for water quality characterization that also helps identification of variations in the performance, (iii) Utilizing curative tools that includes performing experiments and optimization trials without compromising the water quality produced, (iv) Utilizing decision support systems to highlight some other aspects e.g. economic and environmental issues that are not covered by the diagnostic and curative tools, (v) Identifying performance optimization potentials and possible benefits, (vi) Implementing selected operation conditions based on overall assessments of potential advantages and disadvantages for both treatment and distribution systems. The framework has been successfully implemented in case studies in UK, The Netherlands and Norway in order to support decision for sustainable optimization of full-scale water treatment plants in the respective locations.