ROSA: Rate and Energy Efficiency Strategies for Water Sustainability in Panama (Session 4)

The event covered a wide variety of topics focused on energy efficiency, starting with an international view on energy consumption and intensity in the water and sanitation sector. Global statistics were presented that highlighted the common challenges facing the industry in terms of energy consumption, followed by a specific analysis of the situation in Panama.

ECLAC experts presented national statistics that reveal the energy consumption and intensity of the sector in Panama, along with a review of national energy efficiency programs and projects in the country. A detailed analysis of electrical losses in water supply systems was provided, with concrete examples of losses in motors, pumps and charging systems, and how these can be mitigated.

One of the most illustrative stages of the event was the example of calculating energy and water losses in an operator in the sector, regarding which the participants, guided by ECLAC speakers, worked on a practical loss estimation exercise. This exercise allowed attendees to directly apply the methodology discussed in a real case, followed by a discussion of the results obtained.

In addition to this, the main energy efficiency measures were introduced, with examples applied to collection systems, aqueduct and sewage networks, water purification plants, and wastewater treatment stations (WWTP). These measures were presented as effective solutions to reduce energy consumption and improve the sustainability of operations.

The fourth session of the ROSA webinar cycle concluded with a question and answer session, in which participants from Panama’s IDAAN were able to interact with ECLAC experts, obtaining clarifications on the implementation of the strategies discussed. With the active participation between ECLAC experts and IDAAN participants, this session was a success in terms of providing attendees with practical tools and key knowledge for energy optimization in water and sanitation infrastructure in Panama.