Co-Design of Water Distribution Systems with Behind-the-Meter Solar

The design of water distribution systems (WDSs) is crucial for ensuring a resilient water supply for the future. To improve the energy efficiency of WDSs, behind-the-meter (BTM) solar has been considered as an option. Due to the complex water–energy relationship between WDSs and their associated BTM solar systems, the co-design of the integrated systems that considers the combined performance of both systems is required. Moreover, the design of WDS also needs to anticipate potential changes in the future due to their long service life, as both future water demand and potential solar PV technology development can have an impact on system performance over time. This study aims to develop an approach for the co-design of WDSs and the BTM solar systems under long-term water demand and solar PV technology development uncertainty.