Demand Response Potential of Drinking Water Distribution Networks

Abstract

Pumps in drinking water distribution networks can be controlled to participate in demand response programs. In this paper, we estimate the demand response potential of water distribution networks based on actual network data. We calculate the power and energy capacities of community water systems within Wisconsin and Arizona, drawing on publicly available data of consumer water demand, population served, storage tanks, and pump specifications. We then extrapolate this data to get an order-of-magnitude estimate for the entire United States. Overall, we found that water distribution networks are sizable demand response assets with an estimated power capacity of 13 GW and energy capacity of 750 GWh in the United States. We also found that large and very large utilities may be the best demand response candidates. This paper also discusses factors impacting water supply flexibility and future research directions.