An optimization model for simultaneous design and operation of renewable energy microgrids integrated with water supply systems

Water Supply Systems are recognized as significant energy consumers. Consequently, numerous studies have concentrated on optimizing and designing energy-efficient water systems. Nonetheless, despite the increasing awareness of renewable energy sources, less emphasis was given to the optimized integration of sustainable green energy systems in the design and operation of water supply systems. The proposed model presents an innovative approach by introducing an optimization model for water supply systems that integrates solar plants and battery storage systems, transforming conventional water supply systems design and operation methods. The optimization model addresses both the design and operation of these systems, with the primary objective of minimizing total costs, including capital and operational expenditures. This novel model not only determines the optimal sizing of essential components and daily operations, encompassing power and water flow regulation across different seasons, but also signifies a paradigm shift in the planning and management of integrated water and energy systems. The comparative analysis between conventional water supply systems and our combined water and power systems highlights their compelling advantages. The results show how the utilization of clean energy resources can facilitate remarkable improvements in energy cost efficiency. Furthermore, the approach not only reshapes conventional operational strategies, but also redefines traditional design guidelines for water supply systems. The study also extends to the sensitivity analysis, demonstrating that the advantages of solar and battery integration are contingent on the size of the water supply systems, with larger systems experiencing more significant benefits. The results in this study advance our understanding of integrated systems, providing a clear roadmap toward a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable future for water and energy infrastructure.