Energy-Water Nexus: Water Use Efficiency in the Energy Sector

Water and energy are inextricably linked. Water is needed for energy production, and energy is needed for the extraction, conveyance, treatment, and distribution of water. Water requirements for electricity generation vary significantly, depending on the primary energy source, conversion technologies, and cooling technologies. Therefore, to meet future demands, integrated planning between both the energy and water sectors is essential. This analysis provides a tool that supports integrated planning by quantifying the water requirements for electricity generation from both renewable and non-renewable sources.

Using California as a case study, we assess the freshwater requirements for current and future electricity generation under several different energy portfolios. Our analysis demonstrates the potentially positive effects of investment in certain renewable resources such as solar photovoltaics, wind power, and waste-based bioenergy. Similarly, dry cooling technologies, if employed in thermoelectric power plants, can greatly diminish the electricity sector’s impacts on freshwater resources. Conversely, increased reliance on dedicated energy crops or geothermal sources may
have extraordinary impacts on freshwater resources. As existing freshwater supplies become increasingly taxed, allocations to the electricity sector may become limited. Consequently, policies that encourage resource conservation and integrated planning
will be imperative.

Click here for the full pdf version of our report.

Click here for the Excel workbook our work is based from.