Real-time control of retention basins for stormwater management and Rainwater Reuse

Abstract

This study examines the potential of transforming stormwater retention basins into multifunctional systems for flood mitigation and rainwater harvesting, addressing urban challenges of flood risk and sustainable water management. By integrating real-time control (RTC) mechanisms, the research explores how traditional basins can serve dual purposes. A Python-based hydrological model tested forecast-based control (FBC) strategies against rule-based and business-as-usual (BAU) systems. In a case study from Gothenburg, Sweden, FBC reduced overflow volumes by up to 50% compared to rule-based control and met up to 95% of water reuse demand. Experimental validation showed strong agreement between simulated and observed data, highlighting the benefits of FBC in optimizing water discharge and reuse. These results demonstrate the feasibility of repurposing existing retention basins into multifunctional infrastructure, offering environmental and economic advantages while enhancing urban water resilience.