Water System Management through a Mixed Optimization-Simulation Approach

Although various strategies have been defined for using optimization and simulation techniques in combination, few of these have been employed in real-world multireservoir and multiuse water systems. Despite potential for the use of optimization in the search for efficient alternatives, full integration between simulation and optimization has not yet been achieved to close the gap between research and real-world application. This paper illustrates a procedure integrating optimization and simulation models with the aim of identifying and evaluating drought mitigation measures by means of a proactive approach. In the proposed technique the system manager must define preferences and priorities instead of using the precise operating rules usually required by simulation. A tuning phase is needed when using the proposed approach to evaluate key parameters of the mixed technique for real case application.