Optimizing Hydro, Solar and Wind Integration for a Water Utility Using RETScreen Expert

The transition to sustainable energy is a key challenge for water utilities aiming to reduce operational costs and emissions while maintaining supply reliability. This case study presents the energy and financial analysis of a water utility in Nova Scotia planning to integrate a micro-hydro turbine utilizing water released from its main reservoir, along with small-scale wind turbines and both ground-mounted and floating solar PV systems at its main water treatment plant site.

During the presentation, we will use RETScreen Expert in real-time to model each of these renewable energy solutions individually, assessing their energy generation potential, investment costs, financial feasibility, and carbon emissions reductions. We will also explore different energy rate scenarios and their impact on the viability of each technology. Finally, we will apply RETScreen’s optimization tools to determine the most efficient and cost-effective combination of renewable technologies for the water utility.

While the case study is based on a utility in Nova Scotia, the methodology and approach presented are applicable to other regions, providing attendees with a practical guide on how to use RETScreen to design strategic and sustainable energy solutions in the water sector.