Quantifying and benchmarking drinking water treatment facilities in 5 geographical regions in New Jersey, USA using energy and carbon intensity metrics

Abstract

Energy use in drinking water systems varies significantly across utilities due to differences in operating conditions, and system configuration, posing challenges for consistent energy benchmarking. In this study, we present data collection, alignment and benchmarking approach based on a long-term operational data set from a water utility company operated in five geographical regions in New Jersey. The framework enabled quantification and comparison of total energy consumption and water production, across raw water, treatment and finished water facilities. The total energy and carbon intensity metrics were calculated using the aligned dataset supporting the comparative benchmarking approach. Energy and carbon intensities were calculated for all regions combined, by region, and by specific function of drinking water facilities, resulting in overall averages of 0.7 kWh/m³ and 0.24 kg CO₂e/m³, respectively. Additionally, this study highlights that factors such as topography, applied treatment technologies and the spatial distribution of water consumers are positively correlated with energy requirements for pumping and treatment.