Atmospheric Water Generators: Demand Response Evaluation of Two Dehumidification Drinking Water Systems

The Emerging Technologies Program at SDG&E chose The Energy Smiths to evaluate the electrical load and demand response capabilities of two (2) types of Atmospheric Water Generators, also known as dehumidification drinking water systems. These systems both generate drinking water by dehumidifying the air surrounding the unit. They also chill the water, and one of the units has a water heating capability as well. The units selected are the Skywell 5T and Drinkable Air Chameleon 8. Both units have Wi-Fi connectivity that was designed to be used for conducting demand response event load shedding.

The primary purposes of this evaluation were to:
1. Determine the load profile, baseline energy use and peak demand of the units.
2. Determine the available peak load reduction of the units for a demand response event. Multiple reduction strategies may be analyzed, including but not limited to turning the unit off or adjusting the water delivery temperature set points.

Also covered in the project scope was a water testing component. The purpose was to take water samples to an independent laboratory and run a panel of tests to compare the water quality to that of the local city’s drinking water, and ensure the water was safe to consume.

The rollout of this project was severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. There were ten (10) units placed throughout San Diego County at various types of businesses for use and evaluation. When the pandemic struck and lockdown happened, nearly all these businesses closed their doors to in office work. The pandemic shutdown stopped the evaluation of these water generators for almost two years. This produced several challenges for the evaluation.

Other challenges and findings include water tests with a Nitrate failure, heat and noise byproduct, need for humid environment, data logging equipment removed/stolen, and mechanical unit failures.