City‐scale energy recovery potential in water distribution networks: Integrated hydraulic and economic assessment of micro‐hydropower implementation

Abstract

Recovering excess pressure in water distribution networks (WDNs) through micro‐hydropower has emerged as a promising decentralized renewable energy strategy for urban areas. This study evaluates the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of deploying micro‐hydropower turbines in 61 isolated pressure zones within the Konya metropolitan WDN, Türkiye. Hydraulic performance was assessed using validated SCADA data supported by hydraulic modeling to determine available flow and head conditions. Using a water density of 998.2 kg/m 3 at approximately 20°C, the analysis identified an aggregate recoverable power potential of approximately 1.41 MW and an annual electricity generation potential of 12.31 GWh. Based on the YEKDEM feed‐in tariff, the system could generate approximately 1.10 million USD in annual gross revenue, compared with an estimated investment cost of 1.92 million USD. Assuming annual operation and maintenance costs equal to 2% of the initial investment, the project yields a simple payback period of 1.82 years and an internal rate of return of approximately 55.1%. Net Present Value (NPV) analysis indicates positive values across the 4–15% discount‐rate range under the stated assumptions. In addition to reducing reliance on grid electricity, the proposed system would decrease CO 2 emissions and support urban decarbonization efforts. Although financial performance remains sensitive to financing conditions, inflation, tariffs, exchange rates, and long‐term reliability, the findings indicate that network‐wide micro‐hydropower integration can be technically feasible and economically attractive under the evaluated conditions.