By moving from a reactive (consumption‐following) to a proactive operating strategy using short‐term consumption forecasting (STCF), utilities can save millions of dollars in energy costs. Accurate forecasting techniques and tools are required to realize these cost savings. Short‐term consumption forecasting systems at four water utilities as well as developed prototype systems at five water utilities were studied. Various forecasting methods were also studied and accuracy benchmarked. These nine utilities comprise numerous climate zones and varied customer demographics throughout North America. Electric utility experience with short‐term load forecasting is also presented. Observations and lessons learned are presented. Further recommendations will be published by the Awwa Research Foundation in a future report.
For many reasons, including growth, increasing environmental awareness, and mounting local, state, and federal regulations, managing a water system has become more complex. Having the right tools is essential to properly managing a water system in this environment. An operations optimization system is such a tool that offers water utilities a strategic opportunity to provide the most effective overall management of operations. Implementation of an operations optimization system can be done over time with minimal initial investment. It addresses the entire water system, from the initial raw resource to the customer. Benefits may include lower energy costs for pumping; reduced cost of water supplies; consistent, high‐quality water; and, lower capital costs by coordinating operations optimization with water system planning.
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