Upgrading water distribution networks to work under uncertain conditions

Abstract

This work presents a multicriteria approach to defining flexible solutions for reinforcing and renewing existing water distribution networks, considering uncertain future working conditions. Criteria related to financial, environmental and pipe failure assessment are proposed to evaluate alternative solutions and to identify the best-placed options to implement. The alternatives are obtained for a phased design scheme that enables midcourse corrections through changes in the network layout. The proposed framework has been demonstrated using a case study based on a water distribution network from the literature.