Optimization model for the Aguas Group drinking water production and main distribution network

A model based on mixed-integer network optimization is developed and applied to the Aguas Group drinking water production and main distribution system. The four sanitary companies owned by the group, which supply nearly all Santiago, Chile, with drinking water, possess an intricate network of hydrological sources, water treatment plants, wells, pipelines and elevation plants, providing profuse alternatives to supply their clients. The Production and Main Distribution Optimization Model (MOPYT) searches for the global optimal provision scheme from an operational costs standpoint, specifically electricity, chemical inputs and extra labour expenses. The model provides weekly benchmarks for the diverse productive quarters. It has also been used for budgetary exercises planned for water demand forecasts. MOPYT has been particularly beneficial for generating consensus among complementary operational areas such as production and main distribution, achieving global costs efficiency.