# Hybrid Renewable Systems for Small Energy Communities: What Is the Best Solution?
## 1 Introduction
Real-time decision-making allows for adaptive management of water resources in response to unexpected events, such as extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, or equipment failures. This adaptability ensures a more resilient and responsive water distribution network that can maintain service quality even under challenging circumstances. Improving the monitoring and control of complex networks is another critical benefit [13]. Using advanced sensors and IoT devices, water distribution systems can collect vast amounts of data on various parameters, including pressure, flow rate, and water quality. Centralized control platforms integrate this data to provide operators with a comprehensive view of the system's status, making it easier to identify and address issues. Enhanced monitoring leads to improved system reliability and operational efficiency by allowing utilities to continuously optimize network performance. Furthermore, these technologies support the development of digital twins that replicate system behavior virtually [14], enabling operators to simulate different operational scenarios, plan maintenance activities, and evaluate the impact of new policies or infrastructure upgrades. Digital twins can be used to train staff and test emergency response strategies, providing valuable insights into system dynamics without risking the actual infrastructure. As a result, digital twins enhance operational planning and support informed decision-making. The combined effect of these innovations is more efficient resource use, cost savings, and improved environmental sustainability in water distribution and supply systems [15]. By optimizing the allocation and use of water resources, these technologies contribute to reduced energy consumption in water treatment and distribution processes, thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, sustainable water management practices help to protect natural ecosystems by reducing water extraction from natural sources and minimizing pollution. Emerging intelligent optimization algorithms, especially those based on swarm intelligence, form a category of optimization methods inspired by collective behaviors in natural systems. The most widely used algorithms include Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) [16] and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) [17]. Additionally, less commonly employed algorithms have been developed, such as the Sticky Mushroom Algorithm (SMA) [18], Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) [19], Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (GOA) [20], Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA) [21], Moth-Flame Optimization (MFO) [22], Seagull Optimization Algorithm (SOA) [23], Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) [24], and Golden Sine Algorithm (GSA) [25], as well as the Generalized Reduced Gradient Nonlinear method [26]. These algorithms utilize decentralized decision-making processes to address complex optimization problems related to microgrid applications in water distribution systems [27] or small energy communities. Water management is intrinsically connected to energy consumption, requiring distribution systems designed to achieve zero energy demand and self-sufficiency in both water and energy [28]. The incorporation of renewable energy sources into various technologies has broadened their application in water distribution systems, promoting the sustainable use of traditional energy resources [29]. The global energy crisis, particularly in Europe, has driven numerous countries to explore alternatives to imported fossil fuels, leading to a substantial increase in global renewable energy capacity [15]. Recent advancements in renewable energy have primarily focused on photovoltaic (PV) systems, wind energy, and hydropower technologies [30]. PV systems can be utilized in a variety of settings, from urban rooftops to remote off-grid areas, provided there is sufficient sunlight [31]. However, a major challenge of solar systems is the need to integrate them with other clean energy generation methods to ensure continuous power supply and manage surplus energy produced by the solar system [32].