Advancing water resource science and engineering
Scientists in the Water Resource Science and Engineering Group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are advancing understanding and management of water systems through multidisciplinary research, data analytics, modeling, engineering design, decision support and visualization. The group develops innovative tools and technologies to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and adaptability of water resources, particularly in the context of energy production and infrastructure planning.
One of the group’s primary focus areas is optimizing hydropower generation by providing decision-support tools for real-time operations and long-term planning. Researchers work on modeling and analytics that help improve the performance of individual hydropower plants and entire facility fleets, maximizing energy output while balancing environmental and water management needs. By leveraging advanced simulations, machine learning, and data-driven insights, the group supports more effective hydropower operations that integrate with evolving energy demands.
Scientists leverage cutting-edge technologies to provide critical insights for more efficient, reliable, and adaptable water systems, supporting energy, agriculture, and communities in an evolving world. Credit: Mario Morales-Hernández/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy
Beyond energy applications, the group is pioneering the development of hydrologic and hydraulic models to assess emerging challenges related to water availability, river system behavior and watershed dynamics. These models enable researchers and practitioners to anticipate changes in streamflow, groundwater levels, and water quality, helping communities and industries make informed decisions about water use and conservation. By examining long-term trends and near-term hydrologic variability, researchers provide actionable insights into how shifting environmental patterns affect water security.
Another key area of expertise involves infrastructure resilience and risk assessment. Researchers use high-performance computing and large-scale simulations to evaluate the vulnerability of water-dependent systems, including municipal water supplies, irrigation networks, and hydropower facilities. This work informs strategies to reduce disruptions and ensure reliable water access for energy, agriculture, and urban development.
Through cutting-edge research and technological innovation, researchers in the Water Resource Science and Engineering Group enable thoughtful, informed water management, ensuring that energy systems, ecosystems, and communities can adapt to evolving water challenges.
