Optimal operation of the Jirau hydroelectric power plant reservoir using nonlinear optimization

Hydroelectric production is normally scheduled with respect to the demand in the power network at any time. At the hydroelectric power plant, regulating the volume of the reservoir is an important strategy to optimize the energy production. In this context, this paper proposes a control strategy for the optimal operation of the reservoir of Jirau hydroelectric power plant. This strategy is obtained using nonlinear optimization in order to maximize the production of electricity according to daily reservoir variation. To validate the model it was used historical data of the plant's flow. Results show that the model concentrated resources in the region with the highest energy demand, increasing reservoir use. On the other hand, it has preserved resources in regions of lower demand, increasing reservoir volume.