MULTIOBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION OF RESERVOIR SYSTEMS OPERATION

Development of optimal operational policies for large-scale reservoir systems is often complicated by a multiplicity of conflicting project uses and purposes. A wide range of multiobjective optimization methods are available for appraising tradeoffs between conflicting objectives. The purpose of this study is to provide guidance as to those methods which are best suited to dealing with the challenging large-scale, nonlinear, dynamic, and stochastic characteristics of multireservoir system operations. As a case study, the selected methodologies are applied to the Han River Reservoir System in Korea for four principal project objectives: water supply and low flow augmentation; annual hydropower production, reliable energy generation, and minimization of risk of violating firm water supply requirements. Additional objectives such as flood control are also considered, but are imposed as fixed constraints.