Integrated Water Systems Research

NLR's integrated water systems research focuses on the nexus of the energy, water, land, atmospheric, and urban sectors.

Integrated water systems research focuses on the complex challenges and opportunities that exist at the intersection of energy supply and water system infrastructure in multiple land use scenarios and with environmental shifts. NLR's systems modeling and infrastructure facilities support integrated water systems research and provide decision-support services to partners.

From our high-resolution systems modeling capabilities to our world-class integration infrastructure facilities, NLR simulates water and energy systems together at scale. In addition, our advanced water treatment and integrated water technology research spans fundamental development, validation, demonstration, and deployment.

Capabilities

NLR offers the following integrated water systems capabilities.

Nexus Systems Modeling and Analysis

We perform cutting-edge analysis and develop unique multisector and multiscale model frameworks to address critical planning and operational decisions at the energy-water-land nexus, including external forcing factors that influence the energy and water sectors.

Water and Power Systems Integration

NLR researchers evaluate synergies between energy and water infrastructure, examining technical and economic factors affecting system integration.

Advanced Water Treatment

NLR investigates novel treatment technologies and treatment trains, along with innovative manufacturing practices, to improve efficiency and reduce the cost of water treatment and delivery at premise, local, regional, and national scales.

Technology Development, Validation, Demonstration, and Deployment

We provide on-the-ground expertise to support the development, validation, demonstration, and deployment of practical and efficient energy-water technologies and integrated solutions.

Decision Science, Support, and Informatics

NLR provides objective, technology-neutral support to help decision makers address technical, policy, and economic barriers to support optimized energy-water-land system integration.

Publications

View all NLR publications about integrated water systems research.

Feature Stories

New Water Treatment Technology Could Help Recycle Even Super Salty Waters (2023)

NREL Research Is Insane in the Membrane (2023)

Contacts