Bridging Decision Networks for Integrated Water and Energy Planning

Abstract

Integrated policy and planning is needed to effectively meet the challenges of growing water and energy inter-dependencies in many regions. Joint consideration of both water and energy domains can identify new options for increasing overall resource use efficiencies. In order to identify and realize such opportunities, however, detailed knowledge of current and emerging water–energy couplings is needed along with a nuanced understanding of key actors and agencies engaged in decision-making. In this paper we develop a systematic, analytical approach based on quantitative analysis of water and energy couplings, identification and characterization of key actors and groups using concepts from stakeholders theory, and employing notions from organization theory of boundary-spanning agents that can serve to bridge inter-organizational networks for water and energy planning. We apply this approach to conduct an in-depth investigation of water and energy resources in Jordan, a country that is at the cusp of developing new infrastructure that will enmesh its water and energy future. We find that oil-shale development (a strategic objective of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources) will create new water requirements and new sources (such as desalination of seawater and greater reuse of wastewater) will help in fulfilling demand. There may also be opportunities for creating water savings in the agricultural sector and using wastewater from the municipal sector for partially fulfilling water needs in the energy sector. Realizing such arrangements however will require joint cooperation across a number of different agencies such as the Water Authority of Jordan, Jordan Valley Authority, the Natural Resource Authority and municipal water management companies. This coordination can be facilitated through boundary-spanning agencies, such as international donor agencies and The Ministry of Planning that are already locally well positioned for such a role.

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