Recovery of the energy potential of rainwater through sustainable urban drainage systems with hydraulic microturbines in San Juan Bautista, Maynas

Abstract

The district of San Juan Bautista, in the province of Maynas, faces a dual challenge: recurrent flooding due to heavy rainfall and limited access to electricity in vulnerable communities. This research analyses the feasibility of implementing Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) integrated with micro hydraulic turbines as a synergistic solution to both issues. The main objective is to assess the potential for energy utilization of stormwater, transforming an environmental risk into a renewable resource. Through a review of case studies and relevant scientific literature, the technical feasibility of this approach is explored, aligning with the global transition toward resource optimization within the water-energy nexus [1]. Preliminary results, based on analyses of similar cases, suggest that integrating microturbines into stormwater drainage systems can efficiently generate renewable energy (with estimated outputs between 1kW and 110kW in stormwater systems) while simultaneously contributing to flood control [2]. This study concludes that the proposed model represents an innovative and sustainable alternative to enhance urban resilience and quality of life in San Juan Bautista, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.