Application of Genetic Algorithms for Optimal Reservoir Operation

Genetic Algorithms (GAs) application in the field of water resources engineering is of recent origin. Genetic Algorithms is one of the tools, which handles nonlinear optimization problems in an efficient manner. Optimal reservoir operation of reservoir for hydropower production involves constrained nonlinear optimization. The constrained problem is converted into unconstrained problem by using penalty function method. Genetic algorithm was then used to optimize the reservoir operation for hydropower production. This apporach was used to develop optimal operating policy for Hirakud reservoir, a multipurpose project on river Mahanadi, India (geographical location of the dam: Latitude 21 32 N, Longitude 83 52’ E). Hydropower production from the system is maximized with other demands as constraints. Various steps involved in deriving the optimal operating policy for the reservoir using GA are discussed in the paper. For fixing the GA parameters viz. Crossover probability and mutation probability, the model is run for different values of crossover and mutation probabilities. For a crossover probability of 0.800 and a mutation probability 0.006, the model was found to perform well. After fixing the GA parameters the model is run for various dependable levels of inflows. The operating policy thus obtained can be used for optimal operation of the reservoir. Results from the model and possible extensions were discussed.