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Energy-Efficient Management of Urban Water Distribution Networks Under Hydraulic Anomalies: A Review of Technologies and Challenges

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  • Bowen Duan

    (School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
    State Key Laboratory of Urban-Rural Water Resource & Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China)

  • Jinliang Gao

    (School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
    State Key Laboratory of Urban-Rural Water Resource & Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China)

  • Huizhe Cao

    (School of Architecture and Design, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
    Key Laboratory of Cold Region Urban and Rural Human Settlement Environment Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China)

  • Shiyuan Hu

    (School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
    State Key Laboratory of Urban-Rural Water Resource & Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China)

Abstract

Urban water distribution systems face growing challenges from energy inefficiencies caused by hydraulic anomalies, such as pipe aging, bursts, demand variability, and suboptimal pump and valve operations. This review systematically evaluates current technologies for energy-efficient management of WDNs under such conditions, structured around both basic and applied technologies. Basic technologies include real-time monitoring, data acquisition, and hydraulic modeling with CFD simulation. Applied technologies focus on demand forecasting, pressure management for energy optimization, and leakage anomaly detection. Case studies demonstrate the practical value of these approaches. Despite recent advances, challenges persist in data interoperability, real-time optimization complexity, scalability, and forecasting uncertainty. Future research should emphasize adaptive AI algorithms, integration of digital twin platforms with control systems, hybrid optimization frameworks, and renewable energy recovery technologies. This review provides a comprehensive foundation for the development of intelligent, energy-efficient, and resilient urban water distribution systems through integrated, data-driven management strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Bowen Duan & Jinliang Gao & Huizhe Cao & Shiyuan Hu, 2025. "Energy-Efficient Management of Urban Water Distribution Networks Under Hydraulic Anomalies: A Review of Technologies and Challenges," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-27, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:11:p:2877-:d:1668620
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