CFD STUDY OF SMALL-SCALE HYDROPOWER ENERGY RECOVERY AND HYDROGEN PRODUCTION IN THE ATHENS WATER SUPPLY NETWORK

Alkistis Stergiopoulou, Institut für Wasserwirtschaft, Hydrologie und Konstruktiven Wasserbau, B.O.K.U. University, Muthgasse 18, 1190 Vienna, (actually Senior Process Engineer at the VTU Engineering in Vienna, Office Campus Gasometer, Guglasse 15/4a/1.OG, 1100 Vienna), Lindengasse 15, 1070 Vienna, Austria

Vassilios Stergiopoulos, Professor, ASPETE, School of Pedagogical and Technological Education, Department of Civil Engineering Educators, ASPETE Campus, Eirini Station, 15122 Amarousio, Athens, Greece

Abstract
This paper investigates the potential of integrating Small Hydropower Plants (SHPs) into the Athens Water Supply Network (AWSN) to recover otherwise wasted hydraulic energy and support green hydrogen production. Five candidate sites, Evinos, Kirfi, Helicon, Kithairon, and Mandra, are evaluated in terms of their energy recovery potential, economic viability, and contribution to low-carbon hydrogen generation. The proposed approach promotes the sustainable use of existing water infrastructure, reducing energy losses while supporting the transition to cleaner energy systems. In addition, preliminary Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations are presented to examine the hydrodynamic behavior of the proposed installations. Flow-3D results provide initial insights into flow patterns and system performance, highlighting key design considerations. Although the findings are encouraging, further research is needed to fully assess environmental impacts and optimize system integration.

Keywords
Hydrogen, CFD, FLOW-3D, AWSN, Renewable Energy, Small Hydro, Environment, Water Supply

Cite this paper
Alkistis Stergiopoulou, Vassilios Stergiopoulos, CFD STUDY OF SMALL-SCALE HYDROPOWER ENERGY RECOVERY AND HYDROGEN PRODUCTION IN THE ATHENS WATER SUPPLY NETWORK , SCIREA Journal of Environment. Volume 10, Issue 1, February 2026 | PP. 1-13. 10.54647/environmental610449

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