Multi-reservoir real-time operation rules: a new genetic programming approach

This paper employs non-linear programming, genetic algorithms and fixed-length gene genetic programming (FLGGP) for the real-time operation of a three-reservoir system (Karoon4, Khersan1 and Karoon3) in which dependent and independent approaches are used to forecast the hydroelectric energy generated by the system. A total deficiency function as well as efficiency criteria are used to investigate the results obtained. The latter indicate that the more flexible FLGGP gives the most efficient function for the extraction of reservoir operation rules in both dependent and independent approaches. By comparing the two approaches, no significant difference was observed. Consequently, due to the simplicity of the application of the forecast-independent approach, it is suggested for application in the extraction of reservoir operation decision rules. Moreover, the advantages of a three-reservoir system operation over a single-reservoir system operation reflect the efficiency of the integrated management of water resource systems.