Optimization of pump operation patterns for reducing the energetic cost of a water distribution system

Abstract

The optimal management of water supply systems is a critical factor for the well-being of a society. In this context, water companies face a major challenge in the operation of water pumping systems for water supply of cities: to determine the optimal use of its resources in order to minimize the energy cost (EC) of operation. This paper presents an optimization model in Linear Programming (LP) for the operation of a water distribution system in a city of the São Paulo State comprising two pumps and three water tanks. A model was created to determine the optimal pattern of operation for the two bombs within 24 hours in order to minimize the EC and at the same time, comply with the capacity reservation constraints and meet demand. The results of this study show that the use of PL may be satisfactory for the resolution of this problem and can provide benefits for the water company, the population served and for the environment by improving the  energetic efficiency of a water distribution system.