Economic Analysis of Pressure Management in Water Distribution Networks

Pressure management (PM) is one of the most effective methods of leakage management in water distribution networks (WDNs). In addition to reducing leakage, it provides many benefits for water utilities. The purpose of this paper is an economic analysis of the PM through a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, taking into account the various aspects of the implementation of PM in WDNs. For this purpose, a mathematical model was developed for evaluating the benefits arising from implementing PM on the reduction of leakage, pipe breaks, active leakage control, water consumption, energy consumption, building damages and the increase of customer satisfaction and the costs of purchase, installation, operation and maintenance, and revenue reduction due to the reduction of water consumption. Using the developed model, the net benefit and benefit/cost ratio can be calculated for each PM scheme. As a case study, the advanced PM system was implemented through the installation of time modulated (TM) and flow modulated (FM) pressure reducing valves (PRVs) in a district metered area (DMA) located in Mashhad city. The net benefit and benefit/cost ration was then estimated by the developed mathematical model. The results showed that the net benefit of PM system through FM is greater than TM and the benefit/cost ratio was obtained 3.7 and 3.2 respectively. The developed mathematical model will assist water managers and practitioners in comprehensive understanding of the benefits and economic justification for implementing PM schemes.