The Water–Energy Nexus in Thermoelectric Power Plants: A Focus on Italian Installations Regulated Under the Integrated Emission Directive
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The study investigates the impact of water use in energy production in industrial plants, considering the interdependence between water and energy, or the water–energy nexus, to promote sustainable water and energy management. More specifically, it focuses on the industrial sector, particularly on electricity production in thermoelectric power plants, which require large amounts of water for cooling in its production cycle. The field of analysis is set in Italy, referring to the applications of the European Industrial Emissions Directive and Italian regulations that govern water and energy usage. The focus is on large combustion plants, which need to be monitored by national authorities. The Italian situation is outlined, exposing consumption data from major thermoelectric power plants in 2021 through 2023, highlighting the water usage trend and electricity production. In 2023, total water use for these installations was 9,892,719,965 m3—mainly from seawater—with an overall production of electric energy of 117,239,954 MWh, with a relevant fuel consumption from natural gas (18,544,742,774 Sm3). It also analyzed the application of best available techniques to reduce water consumption, recycle water flows, and minimize the environmental impact of power plants. Finally, the main fuels used in these plants, such as natural gas, coal, and biomass, are presented, along with the environmental performance of the power plants based on water use per unit of energy produced.
Source: Water
DOI: 10.3390/w17091285
Language: English
Subfield: Water Science and Technology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4409801372