Minimization of Power Demand Through Optimized Pressure Management in Water Distribution Networks

Management strategies for reducing the environmental impact of water distribution systems often rely on pressure management to limit demand. Yet, dissipated or recovered stream power in valves and pumps as turbines accounts for only part of the supplied energy, while friction, leakage, and excess pressure contribute additional inefficiencies. This work introduces an optimization model that minimizes global excess stream power by explicitly incorporating environmental considerations. Applied to a real water distribution network, the approach identifies optimal valve and turbine placement. Results highlight technical feasibility, environmental benefits, and economic viability, confirming the model’s effectiveness in sustainable water network management.