- freely available
Water 2014, 6(6), 1546-1561; doi:10.3390/w6061546
Abstract: Because of the importance of water supply for the sustainability of urban areas, and
- freely available
Water 2014, 6(6), 1546-1561; doi:10.3390/w6061546
Abstract: Because of the importance of water supply for the sustainability of urban areas, and due to the significant consumption of energy with prices increasing every day, an alternative solution for sustainable energy supply should be sought in the field of Renewable Energy Sources (RES). An innovative solution as presented in this paper has until now not been comprehensively analyzed. This work presents the solution with the application of a (Photovoltaic) PV generator. The main technological features, in addition to the designing methodology and case study are presented in this paper. The critical period approach has been used for the first time for system sizing. The application of this sizing method provides a high reliability of the proposed system. The obtained results confirm the assumption that the PV generator is a promising energy sustainable solution for urban water supply systems. The service reservoir, which acts as water and energy storage for the proposed system, provides the basis for a sustainable solution of water and energy supply. In accordance with the proposed, the reliability of such system is high. This concept of energy supply operation does not generate any atmospheric emission of greenhouse gases, which contributes significantly to the reduction of the impacts of climate changes. The proposed solution and designing methodology are widely applicable and in accordance with the characteristics of the water supply system and climate.
1. Urban Water Systems and Solar Energy
Urban water supply systems (UWSS) are defined as natural, modified and constructed elements of the urban water cycle, related to water supply, that can be found in towns. UWSS provide water to support human life, hygiene, health, safety, recreation and amenities. Natural elements of a system include local and regional water resources, while the modified and constructed elements include water intake, water s