Climate Works Foundation
Water-Energy Nexus Study in India
Overview
'ClimateWorks Foundation' a global platform for philanthropy to innovate and accelerate climate solutions that scale, engaged Datamatrix to carry out a techno-economic feasibility study for Energy & Water Efficiency in India, to effectively address the water-energy nexus challenges in India.
Problem:
In India, over 80% of fresh water resources are used for agriculture, while domestic use
has risen from 5% to 6% over the past decade, and industrial use has increased from 10% to 12%.
The rapid population growth and industrialization are placing immense pressure on water resources,
potentially hindering the country’s development. Improving agricultural water use efficiency is
crucial to avoid severe constraints on growth.
The Challenge
Energy and water use are interdependent, and there is limited understanding among the
government and farmers about optimal use and asset performance due to inadequate measurement
of these resources. Current policies, such as heavily subsidized power, often lead to misuse and
water shortages at critical times.
Approach
To improve water and energy efficiency and recalibrate subsidies, Datamatrix focused
on understanding the link between energy and water use and pumping efficiencies. This
understanding is essential for promoting better resource use and boosting agricultural productivity.
Currently, there is limited scientific research or evidence to support optimal policies for resource
efficiency and sustainability.
R&D Assignment
Datamatrix conducted an in-depth study in five major agrarian states
(Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab, and Karnataka) at the village level. This involved tracking energy
and water use and assessing the efficiency of pump sets. Randomly selected pump sets were
extensively tested to evaluate water, energy, and asset performance. Datamatrix used its Virtual
Pump Stations technology to simulate and validate performance across different seasons.
Findings
Equitable Water Use Based on Cultivation: 24.72% improvement (saves water and energy)
Star-Rated Pumps: 13.56% energy saving
Optimum Pump Selection: 7.64% energy saving
Control & Automation: 5.35% energy saving
Overall Potential:
Energy Saving: 51%
Water Saving: 24%
The study has further revealed that out of the identified 51% energy saving opportunities, 40% of the identified energy-saving opportunities are knowledge-based,
while only 11% can be achieved through government pump replacement programs. High costs
associated with replacements make them unsustainable without integrating appropriate knowledge
interventions.