Optimization of Water Distribution System Through Pump Replacement and Solar System Reconfiguration

Michel Daher Social Foundation (MDSF), established in 2014, is a Lebanese NGO dedicated to
addressing the unique challenges faced by communities in Central Bekaa. Committed to
creating an environment where individuals can achieve their highest potential, the foundation
focuses on community health care, economic and human capacity building, sustainable
community development, and livelihood. MDSF's mission is rooted in providing support to help
people overcome life challenges and to make a positive impact on the Bekaa community.

Project Overview:
The project aims to increase access to safe and reliable water services among communities in
Zahle Caza, Lebanon, with a focus on improving the capacities of the Bekaa Water Establishment
(BWE) and enhancing water services for the upstream and downstream communities of Jdita. Thethe 
project includes technical and material capacity strengthening, community engagement,
facilitation of allocation agreements, and activation of the regional water network.

Scope of Work
Water and Solar Systems Reconfiguration
As the current status of the facility stands, the water distribution is directly from the pumps to
the consumers, this configuration requires more energy to drive the water towards the end-
user.
However, with the existing water tank available at the facility, another configuration can be
implemented, where the pumps drive the water towards the tank and then redistributed it
towards the end-user with the assistance of the potential energy (gravity).

By using the water tank as the main distribution unit, the existing submersible pumps can be
reduced to ones with a smaller power rating. Pump 1 will be replaced by a 120 HP (90 kW) pump,
whereas Pump 3 can be replaced by two 100 HP (75 kW) pumps, thus reducing their energy
usage. The outcome of such a reconfiguration will provide near-full autonomy to 2 pumps.
To cover the replacement of the pumps with smaller-rated units, the solar pumping system will
need to be redesigned to support them.
Currently, the existing solar pumping system size is 273 kWp: this system shall be reconfigured
to be able to supply both pumps. This reconfiguration should include two VFD (one VFD is
needed per pump) and the reconfiguration of wiring in the existing solar pumping system,
including wiring and electrical boards.
The system primarily utilizes solar energy, switching to EDL and diesel generators when
necessary.

All items in the BoQ shall be priced based on the supply and apply of the components or works.
The following are the technical requirements:

1. Pumps and VFDs datasheets and brands.
2. Pumps country of origin.
3. Calculation notes for both pumps selection.
4. Basic pump curves: head pressure proportional to the flow rate.
5. Head pressure and flow rate.
6. Pump performance.
7. Impeller size and type.
8. Efficiency curve.
9. Rotational speed.
10. Clutch specifications.
11. Electrical specifications for the pumps and VFDs.

By applying such expansion all pumps can run on solar energy, limiting the use of other fuel
energy sources, lowering operation costs and decreasing the station’s negative impact on the
environmental aspect (reducing carbon emissions, lowering air pollution, etc.).

A site visit will be held on Wednesday 21 st or Thursday 22 nd of May, 2025 (kindly mention
which date is preferred); during which all technical details will be clarified, and the existing
systems will be inspected.

Expected Deliverables
The contractor is to fulfill all requirements of the scope of work and in case of any discrepancies
and/or unexpected circumstances to notify immediately. The contractor is to provide a fully
functional pumping facility with all properly operating pumps, chlorination (SCADA), electrical
systems, and cameras. The buildings are to be well-repaired (waterproofing, closing holes). The PV
system and generators are to be fully operational and in optimal condition, in addition to
implementing a proper shutdown policy. All electrical wirings are to be well maintained and
properly connected, the to-be installed cables must be correctly and safely wired. All safety
hazards are to be dealt with properly (electrical enclosures, cable covering etc.). All leakages
(diesel, water) are to be repaired and made sure to be long-term.