Optimo™: An Innovative Wastewater Master Plan Optimization Model that Improves System Efficiency, Reduces Risks and Saves Capital and O&M Costs

Carollo Engineers (Carollo), together with the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) developed an innovative planning tool, OPTIMO™, which uses optimization algorithms to minimize operational costs for a complex and interconnected collection, wastewater treatment, and recycled water system. The model applies mass and energy balances to simulate wastewater flow routing, treatment, recycle water distribution, and energy demand and supply. The model accounts for multiple physical and water quality constraints, while maximizing the use of recycled water and minimizing total system operations and maintenance costs, including power, chemical, and labor demands. This integrated model is a planning tool for IEUA that simplifies the complex interactions of their extensive wastewater system to maximize capacity, minimize costs, and balance risks, while meeting regulatory constraints. This paper presents the development and application of the model to IEUA, and benefits to other agencies.