Solar Photovoltaic Array Sizing as an initial investment in SPVWPS in megacities: The case of Mexico City's groundwater wells

Abstract

Megacities in the developing world are currently finding it harder to keep up with the continuous increase of urbanization, population growth and food demand. This situation is exacerbated due to the lack and poorly managed energy-water supply systems. Water from groundwater sources are expected to decrease at such a high rate that some cities are in danger of suffering from depletion and land subsidence. Hence, posing a major risk to the population and the cities infrastructure. The continuous use of fossil fuel based energy production to extract groundwater poses a large environmental risk. Not only do their emissions contribute to climate change, but they create more noise and air pollution, adding to the already highly polluted megacities. It is for this reason that firstly, a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the current state of the energywater status in megacities was done for this thesis. This analysis includes the competition and conflicts between the water-energy-food nexus and later an overview of the current status of renewable energy generation systems around the globe. Secondly, a qualitative case study of Mexico City will be explained. This megacity is a perfect example of a developing megacity that has a very good supply water connection. Nevertheless, the yearly expenditure in conventional energy to pump water from wells that range from 100-1000m is very high and is continuously increasing. Data provided by the Water System of Mexico City (SACMEX) the only institution appointed to operate the water supply for Mexico City, regarding energy consumption and water flow per year for every 528 wells will be analysed. This qualitative analysis examines the possibility of the government investing in solar photovoltaic water pumping systems to replace the use of fossil fuel energy generation. The results of the data analysis revealed that the replacement of the conventional water pumps with solar photovoltaic panels is economically feasible. In fact, it would be beneficial, due to the fact that SACMEX would not incur in an increase in its current expenditure. Meaning that this replacement would not affect the rates that are currently applied in the water supply service to Mexico Citys population.