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Water, Energy, and Sustainable Development

Presented By: Allan Hoffman from the United States Department of Energy

Date: June 15, 2000

Summary: An important part of addressing water issues is having the energy needed to transport, treat or desalinate water resources. A systems approach of addressing water needs on a regional basis can produce optimal solutions. Sustainable economic development is dependent upon the interrelationship between water and energy. A USAID/USDOE case study was done on a renewable energy program in Mexico. A life-cycle cost analysis was made of solar powered versus conventional water pumping systems, and in the long term, a solar powered water pumping system was more cost effective. These case studies analyzed water supplied to a cattle ranch in El Jeromin, Chihuahau and a livestock/irrigation ranch in Baja California Sur. Hoffman also discussed the growing need for desalination technologies since there are relatively few freshwater resources. Energy costs are a principal barrier to greater use of desalination technologies. Hoffman also discussed the use of UV Waterworks for water treatment. The energy required is very low.

Comments: Short minutes and the power point presentation are on file. These provide only a skeleton of the presentation as described above.

 

 

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