A Reference System Architecture for the Energy-Water Nexus

The energy-water nexus has been studied predominantly through discussions of policy options supported by data surveys and technology considerations. As the degree of coupling between the energy and water systems is affected by the design and operation of various engineered system components, our understanding of the nexus and ability to tackle its associated challenges would be enhanced by a system-of-systems engineering model. Such a model, however, requires, first, the development of an appropriate system architecture that clearly identifies the relevant flows of matter and energy and the defining system parameters. This paper presents a reference system architecture for this purpose developed and presented with the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). Once instantiated, this architecture can serve three purposes. First, the presented graphical models can serve qualitative discussions on where and how the supply and demand of water and energy are interdependent. Second, within the operations timescale, the SysML models can support the development of automated information technology and control solutions that integrate energy and water management. Finally, at a planning timescale, the models can inform quantitative decisions on how to best grow and reconfigure the water, wastewater, and energy infrastructure.