Modeling-aided Enhancement of Hydraulic and Energy Efficiency in Castel San Pietro Terme's Water Network

Water distribution systems are essential for delivering potable water across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Efficiently managing these systems to balance water supply with energy consumption is crucial for sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Conducted in collaboration with Gruppo HERA SpA, this thesis focuses on enhancing the hydraulic and energy efficiency of Castel San Pietro Terme's water distribution system to achieve multiple management benefits. The primary objective is to ensure consistent water pressure across the network, thereby minimising infrastructure damage, preventing leaks, and ensuring reliable water delivery. Additionally, the study aims to optimise energy consumption within the system and support sustainability efforts by reducing overall energy usage. A comprehensive literature review establishes the current operational context of Castel San Pietro Terme's water distribution system, providing foundational knowledge and identifying gaps addressed in this study. The methodology involves updating the system model using the modelling software InfoWorks WS Pro and calibrating it with real-life information collection. Data acquisition includes gathering infrastructure details, pumping station operational data, and historical performance records, augmented by SCADA system data and field measurements to ensure model accuracy. After exploring two different design optimisation scenarios on the functioning of the urban water system’s case study, an energy assessment is conducted to identify efficiency improvements. This includes a global energy balance analysis and calculations of energy efficiency indicators to quantify potential savings and assess system performance. The thesis concludes with recommendations for system improvements and outlines future research directions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and overall sustainability of water distribution systems.