Gains from joint operation of multiple reservoir systems

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Abstract
Synergistic gains are defined as the gains in benefits due to joint operation of a system of reservoirs in excess of the benefits from optimal individual operation. These gains are a result of both the deterministic (regional) and the stochastic diversity of flows into each of the reservoirs. They are captured by the use of flexible reservoir operating rules which base release decisions for a given reservoir on the state of the entire system, not just on the state of that reservoir. One possible operating rule is formulated and is demonstrated to be highly effective in capturing synergistic gains. A hypothetical design problem of sizing three water supply reservoirs in parallel is solved by three methods. The first method assumes that no synergistic gains are achievable. The second and third methods recognize the existence of such gains. The method recommended here incorporates the operating rule into the design process and makes use of the observation that the system yield is a function of system capacity.

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