On the operational optimization of large hydrological basins

The operational optimization of large hydrological basins still remains a challenger issue. Large travel times of the water between upstream reservoirs and the mouth of the river, several days as horizon of optimization, very nonlinear equations, uncertainties and ecological constraints result in complex optimization problems with difficult solutions. The present work uses a new formulation, with continuous variables and restrictions expressed as linear equations. Upper and medium Guadalquivir basin is analyzed, including 18 hydro plants with different characteristics and goals of operation. Considerations about uncertainties in the production are formulated. The algorithm has an adequate performance, requiring small cpu times to reach the solution.