Simulation of Multiple Hydropower Reservoir Operations Using System Dynamics Approach

A simulation model is developed to understand the dynamic behavior of a hydraulically coupled multiple reservoir system when operated in real‐time. An object‐oriented simulation environment conceived on the principles of system dynamics (SD) is used for the development of the model. The modeling process consists of developing causal loop, stock and flow diagrams, and carrying out simulations using difference equations to integrate stocks. Unlike traditional simulation environments, modeling using SD principles will aid in the analysis of the system by a series of interconnecting processes and functional relationships. Also, the feedback loops that influence variable values and causal relationships in space and time can be clearly understood using SD‐based simulation. Performance measures are developed to quantify the system performance in making decisions regarding actual implementation of operating rules. A simulation model based on a real‐life hydropower reservoir system in the Province of Manitoba, Canada is developed. Dynamics of the multiple reservoir operation suggest that in a serial system of reservoirs, the operational decision taken at one reservoir will have effect on the other reservoir. The behavior of the reservoir system for extreme events is also observed and conclusions relevant to real‐time operation of the systems are drawn. The simulation models developed in this study provide global description of a hydraulically coupled reservoir system with ability to easily model dynamic processes to obtain operational release decisions that can be adopted in real‐time.