On October 3rd, 2024, the fourth session of the webinar series: “Energy efficiency in the water and sanitation sector” was held, within the framework of the Water Sustainability Network and Observatory project (ROSA in Spanish). Under the leadership of Silvia Saravia Matus, Economic Affairs Officer at ECLAC, the event brought together members of the National Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers (IDAAN) of Panama, with the aim of discussing strategies and technologies to improve energy efficiency in the water and sanitation sector. Alfredo Montañez and Pedro Chavarro, Senior Water Experts at ECLAC, presented the central topics of the day, which included energy consumption in the drinking water and sanitation sector worldwide and its energy intensity in the sector.

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

ECLAC´s experts presented national statistics revealing 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 offered, with concrete examples of losses in motors, pumps and loading 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 of an operator, for which participants, guided by ECLAC exhibitors, worked on a practical loss estimation exercise. This allowed attendees to directly apply the methodology discussed in a real case, followed by a discussion of the results obtained.

In addition, the main energy efficiency measures were introduced, with examples applied to collection systems, aqueduct and sewerage networks, water purification plants, and wastewater treatment plants. 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 part, in which IDAAN participants from Panama were able to interact with ECLAC experts, obtaining clarifications on the implementation of the strategies discussed. With active participation between ECLAC experts and IDAAN participants, this session was a success in terms of providing attendees practical tools and key knowledge for energy optimization in water and sanitation infrastructure.