Spectral analysis and topological and energy metrics for water network partitioning of Skiathos island

Water network partitioning (WNP) into supply clusters aims at improving management of the whole system and subsequent definition of District Meter Areas (DMAs), simplifying water budget and pressure management as well as the identification and reduction of water losses. This solution is a strategic option used by water utilities to control and operate their Water Distribution Networks (WDNs). Thus, it is important to design DMAs in optimal way, inserting flow meters and gate valves in boundary pipes. This is a demanding task, since closure of some network links can worsen network performance in terms of hydraulic and topologic redundancy. This paper presents the application of a novel optimization approach, based on network theory and Graph Partitioning (GP), coupled with heuristic optimization techniques. The methodology uses SWANP software to cluster the network and proceeds with a novel approach for the partitioning phase, based on the minimization of a multi-objective function including both energy and spectral metrics. The methodology is tested on Skiathos Island, Greece WDN. We present interesting preliminary results based on the analysis of several performance indices that measure resilience and robustness of the partitioned network. Overall, an adequate solution to the optimal definition of hydraulic districts through DMAs is presented.