On the Potential of a Smart Control Valve System for Irrigation Water Network Management

Guaranteeing the sustainability of irrigation under the increasing pressures related to resource scarcity and climate change is a major global challenge, specifically in water-scarce areas. The present work proposes a methodological approach and a technological solution to improve operation and management of a critical on-demand pressurized irrigation system. The potential of using an innovative off-grid valve, the green valve, for the real-time monitoring and adaptive control is proven through numerical simulations. Particular emphasis is given to the energy balance feasibility of the system during a typical irrigation season. Reference is made to a real network located in southern Italy.