UASolar

Abstract

This study presents a matlab-based application developed to assess the energy production and expenditure in a water pressurized distribution system. This software evaluates the energy generated in a photovoltaic module using the Duffie and Beckman equations and accounts for the energy required in the water delivery process in a pressurized network. When calculating the energy consumed using a calibrated hydraulic model to find the energy flows through the system’s boundaries. Achieved results indicate the effect of every factor (pipelines, pumps, valves, etc.) and of water losses. This program has been distributed to be employed in the water sector and authors encourage students, practitioners, and decision-makers to use it as a tool to analyse alternatives which reduces energy consumption.