Abstract Summary
Currently, there is a growing need to increase the efficiency and sustainability of cities, due to population growth and high resources consumption. In the water sector, the water-energy nexus is and remains a very important issue, as one of the most energy-intensive activities in a city is the water cycle. However, water supply and distribution are basic services that must be provided on a mandatory basis to the entire population, as it is a universal right. In this context, it is necessary to continue searching for formulas and management systems that allow us to minimise the resources used and provide a quality supply that respects our environment. The energy consumption of water distribution systems consumes 7% of the world's total energy consumption. Particularly 2 to 3% of the world's energy is used for pumping and treating water for urban populations. These values highlight the need for efficient and rational use of water and energy. Moreover, these consumptions are expected to increase in the next 25 years in all regions of our planet. One of the easiest methods of reducing the energy required in the water distribution system is pressure management. The existence of much higher pressures in distribution networks is a common occurrence. Today, the evolution of technology makes it possible to harness this 'surplus' energy through the installation of micro-hydro turbines in drinking water supply networks to make efficient and innovative use of this energy. In this line, the LIFE TURBINES project, a co-financed project by the European Union, aims to obtain electricity from the turbination of water from supply networks, with the objective of contributing to the decarbonisation of the drinking water supply system, and to offer energy and water services accessible to all citizens with the implementation of an energy recovery system through the installation of turbines and in this way cooperate in the energy transition and create climate-neutral cities. The project will address four case studies in Spain and Italy, three of them will be in installations of the network managed by Global Omnium in the Valencian Community and Catalonia, the fourth case study will be the drinking water network of Scansano, managed by Acquedotto del Fiora.
