March 05, 2019

Castro Welcomes $500,000 to UTSA for Research on Water and Electricity Distribution Systems

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS—Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Vice Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and a member of the House Intelligence and Education and Labor Committee, today announced a $500,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) award to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) for a five-year long project addressing the opportunities and challenges presented by a coordinated operation and management of electricity and water distribution systems.

“Sound water and electricity infrastructure are critical to the folks I represent, and this National Science Foundation grant to the University of Texas San Antonio (UTSA) will allow for us to meet challenges and secure opportunities to better our systems,” said Rep. Castro. “As our community in San Antonio continues to grow, it is paramount that our infrastructure and public systems maintain efficiency and effectiveness, while at the same time expanding into new and innovative areas to chart the path ahead. This research can also help communities across Texas and our nation by providing a blueprint for success. I commend UTSA on the award, and their efforts to continue making San Antonio a hub for innovation and efficiency.”

Background: The National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced its intent to award the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) $500,000 over five years for a project entitled “CAREER: Optimal Interdependent Operation of Electricity Distribution Grids and Water Distribution Systems in Smart Cities.” Led by Dr. Nikolaos Gatsis, the project will address the opportunities and challenges presented by coordinated operation and management of electricity and water distribution systems. While electricity distribution networks and water distribution systems are traditionally operated independently, Dr. Gatsis’ research will examine potential benefits such as improved reliability and efficiency in delivering electricity and water to businesses and homes through coordinated management of these critical infrastructures. Using a real-time power network simulator at UTSA, this project will develop models to analyze factors such as connections between the systems, optimal power flows, and coordinated distribution schedules. The award’s duration is projected to last five years and conclude on February 29, 2024.

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