Real-time optimal control of river basin networks

River basins are key components of water supply grids. River basin operators must handle a complex set of objectives including runoff storage, flood control, supply for consumptive use, hydroelectric power generation, silting management, and maintenance of river basin ecology. At present, operators rely on a combination of simulation and optimization tools to help make operational decisions. The complexity associated with this approach, however, makes it unsuitable for real-time (daily or hourly) operation. The consequence is that between longer-term optimized operating points, river basins are largely operated in open loop. This leads to operational inefficiencies most notably wasted water and poor ecological outcomes. This chapter proposes a systematic approach for the real-time operation of entire river basin networks, using optimal control and employing simple low order models.