Energy audit in water supply systems: a proposal of integrated approach towards energy efficiency

Abstract

Abstract An integrated procedure has been designed to identify and rank the opportunity for energy efficiency in water supply systems (WSS). The main objective is to help WSS managers to identify key issues to be treated as nonconformity and develop a program for continual improvement of energy efficiency. The procedure was built in collaboration with practitioners and implemented in a company. One of the concerns during the development of the procedure was to provide companies with a fast and user-friendly tool. Complementarily, it also complies with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and European Committee for Standardization (CEN) standards, and is of great relevance for any company of the sector of water utility. Recommendations for enhancing the energy management in WSS are also addressed in the audit procedure. The findings derived from the evaluation of the state-of-the-art and applications have led to the identification of key issues for energy saving. The success of energy management programs will be based on energy audit and on the top managements' engagement, workers' attitude and qualification, and the financial resources available.