Influence of Design Variables on the Financial Feasibility of Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Extensive implementation of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems can promote substantial improvement in urban water resource management. Therefore, establishing the financial feasibility RWH is imperative for their dissemination. This study evaluated influence rainfall time series indicators (average annual rainfall, seasonality index and behaviour periods without precipitation) design variables (catchment area, demand, number inhabitants, potable demand tank size) on eight Brazilian cities. Correlations between were introduced, along with sensitivity analysis variables. Financial was obtained 30% to 70% simulated scenarios. Initial investment operating costs varied significantly among cities according local prices. Systems a catchment area 200 m2 capable supplying, average, 90.5% maximum consumption observed this study. Local variation tariff schemes affected systems. The inhabitants most influential variable systems, followed by size. Places lower indexes incidence duration dry are likely lead greater feasibility.