Utilizing marginal abatement cost curves (MAC curves) to strategically plan CO2 reduction possibilities for the water sector: the case of watercycle organisation

Abstract

Due to the current pressures of climate change and resource depletion, a great demand is rising for sustainable sources of energy, especially in densely populated areas such as cities. As many authors have already acknowledged (Frijns et al., 2008; Mol et al., 2010; van der Hoek, 2012; Blom et al., 2010; etc.) the watercycle offers much potential in terms of thermal and chemical energy in order to reduce CO2 eq. emissions, herewith creating value of metabolic urban streams to allow for direct sustainability applications in urban areas. Although the theoretical and technical potential is often highlighted, water utilities might face difficulties translating these to deployable strategies. Often, the insight lacks to compare different CO2 eq. emission abating opportunities with each other. In order to support the decision-making process and to validate the choices made, the methodology of marginal abatement cost curves (MAC curves) can be of assistance. The aim of this research is two folded. First of all, it will highlight the applicability of the MAC curves methodology as a decision support tool for water utilities in their quest for sound CO2 eq. emission reductions strategies. Additionally, the research also sheds light on the cost-effectiveness of the CO2 eq. emission abatement of several opportunities, which water utility Waternet can undertake within the watercycle (heat and cold recovery from sources such as waste water and surface water) and outside of the watercycle (renewable energy production through PV and wind). The outline of this paper is as follows: the methodology of MAC curves will be explained after which a practical case for water utility Waternet will illustrate the applicability of MAC curves. Finally, the conclusions of this research will be given.