We present a decision support tool for the operation of reservoirs in British Columbia with weekly storage flexibility during the spring freshet. During the spring season in British Columbia, large amounts of snowmelt can greatly increase local inflows into interior reservoirs with limited storage and create challenging operation scenarios. We have developed a stochastic dynamic programming model to assist reservoir operators in making release decisions during the freshet period with the objective of maximizing the value of hydropower generation. Including stochasticity in the model allows the probability of high inflow events, which may not be easily estimated by an operator, to be reflected in an operation decision. A combination of forecast and historical data is included in the model to provide a current view of uncertain conditions. The model provides easy-to-use release decision support for operators of reservoirs with limited storage during the freshet with an aim to increase revenue from electricity sales.
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