Article Info
Authors: Mojtaba Tahani, Sajad Sadeghi Moghadam, Amin Javanmard
Journal: Energy
Publication date: 30 September 2026
Volume: 360
Article: 141240
DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2026.141240
Study Focus
The article examines energy recovery in water distribution networks where excessive hydraulic pressure is commonly dissipated through pressure reducing valves. It proposes replacing these valves with hydropower systems that can regulate pressure while generating renewable electricity.
Assessment Framework
The study develops a real-data-driven nationwide framework using hydraulic and operational information from 129 sites across Iran. The process first filters locations for hydraulic compatibility and then ranks feasible turbine alternatives through a two-stage multi-criteria decision-making approach.
Fuzzy AHP and VIKOR Method
Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process determines criteria weights from expert judgments, while VIKOR ranks the feasible turbine alternatives. The criteria integrate technical, economic, and environmental sustainability considerations, including specific speed, turbine efficiency, and cost.
Results and Application
Under capacity factor scenarios of 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8, the analysis estimates up to 53.3 MW of electricity generation from Iran’s water distribution networks. The investment is estimated at €26.2 million, with potential annual carbon dioxide reductions of up to 0.246 million tons. Pelton, Turgo, and Francis turbines are identified as the most suitable options.
Key Takeaways
- The framework connects nationwide assessment with practical turbine selection.
- Fuzzy AHP captures expert-based criteria weights.
- VIKOR ranks alternatives under competing sustainability considerations.
- Sensitivity analysis supports the stability of turbine rankings.
Cite this paper
APA: Tahani, M., Sadeghi Moghadam, S., & Javanmard, A. (2026). Nationwide assessment and turbine selection for energy recovery in water distribution networks using fuzzy AHP–VIKOR method. Energy, 360, 141240. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2026.141240
MLA: Tahani, Mojtaba, Sajad Sadeghi Moghadam, and Amin Javanmard. “Nationwide assessment and turbine selection for energy recovery in water distribution networks using fuzzy AHP–VIKOR method.” Energy, vol. 360, 2026, article 141240. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2026.141240.
IEEE: M. Tahani, S. Sadeghi Moghadam, and A. Javanmard, “Nationwide assessment and turbine selection for energy recovery in water distribution networks using fuzzy AHP–VIKOR method,” Energy, vol. 360, Art. no. 141240, 2026, doi: 10.1016/j.energy.2026.141240.
Source
Consult the original ScienceDirect article for complete publication details and evidence.
View the ScienceDirect article