Modernizing water supply to empower Cetinje
This case study focuses the transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the water supply infrastructure in the historic town of Cetinje. This project seeks to reduce water losses, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the financial sustainability of water services for the town’s 13,500 residents. A key component of this project is the integration of renewable energy through the installation of a 4 MW solar power plant, designed to reduce the dependency on the electricity grid for water pumping operations.
About
Challenges:
Problems the Project Aims to Address:
• High water losses due to outdated and inefficient water supply infrastructure, leading to resource wastage.
• Dependency on electricity from the distribution network for water pumping, resulting in high operational costs and energy inefficiency.
• The need to improve the financial sustainability of water services to ensure long-term maintenance and operation.
• The necessity to provide consistent and safe drinking water to 13,500 residents of Cetinje.
Solutions
Technical Solutions Applied by the Project:
Upgrading the existing water supply system to reduce water losses and enhance the reliability of water distribution.
Installation of a 4 MW solar power plant, expected to generate 6,780 MWh annually, to power water pumping stations and decrease electricity costs.
Implementation of advanced monitoring and management systems to improve the operational efficiency of water services. Strategic investments to enhance the financial sustainability of the town’s water supply services, ensuring continued access to safe drinking water.
Impacts
The Cetinje Water Supply System Improvement project not only addresses critical water management issues but also exemplifies the integration of renewable energy in public utilities, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for Cetinje.
- Significant reduction in water losses, leading to more efficient use of water resources and improved service reliability for residents.
- Decreased dependency on the electricity grid and lower operational costs due to the integration of solar energy, contributing to environmental sustainability.
- Reliable access to safe drinking water for 13,500 residents, improving public health and quality of life in Cetinje.
- Long-term financial sustainability of water services, ensuring continued investment in infrastructure and service improvements.