Water-energy nexus in regional model instances: a focus on the Piedmont residential sector

Realization of carbon neutrality and net zero emission policies require a detailed vision of the target energy systems and accurate planification of the transition paths. Open-Source Energy System Optimization Models (ESOMs) are consolidated tools used to back policy makers and stakeholders to examine technological and economic requirements of such goals. Nevertheless, the restriction of these tools to only-energy commodities represent a significant drawback of such models since they may lead to overlooking impact of the actions on resources with other natures. In addition, it is essential to evaluate the feasibility of the policies considering the availability restrictions and limits of other resources. Water is one of the commodities that is highly tight with energy systems, whether directly or indirectly. This paper presents a methodology for water-energy nexus implementation within the upstream and residential sectors of the TEMOA-Piedmont open-source ESOM.