A Sustainable Approach for Energy Recovery in Branched Irrigation Networks Using an Integrated Optimization Model

Abstract

Generating electricity from pressurized water networks has been a subject of research for many years. Technological advancements in recent years, significant performance increases in Pumps operating as Turbines (PATs), and the development of inline micro-turbine designs have led to a surge in research on this topic. Additionally, the heightened severity of climate change impacts and predictions of their future intensification have compelled engineers to investigate ways to improve sustainability in water network design. This paper presents a new optimization methodology for the design of branched irrigation networks that explicitly incorporates energy recovery. The optimization method, which utilizes mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) techniques, was coded using the Python-based PYOMO package and employs the CPLEX solver. The proposed methodology was evaluated in two real-world irrigation networks: the Uzundere and Islambeyli irrigation systems. Application of the optimization model demonstrated its effectiveness by producing designs that simultaneously meet hydraulic requirements and maximize energy generation. The results indicated that by incorporating the optimal number of PATs at strategically selected locations, the systems could generate 268.10 MWh and 468.83 MWh of energy annually, yielding potential economic gains of approximately $21,000 and $36,700, respectively.