Real-Time Modeling for Navigation and Hydropower in the River Mosel

Abstract

This paper describes the development and implementation of a modeling approach using both nonlinear optimization and finite-element simulation to improve the control of river reach water levels for navigation and hydroelectric energy production in run-of-river power plants. These two modeling methods have been incorporated into a decision support system (DSS) for use by the energy company RWE Energie AG for the real-time control of a section of the River Mosel in Germany. The use of this system has eliminated the need to spend several million EURO in dredging to guarantee the navigation depths desired on the river. This paper briefly describes the models and the experiences we had calibrating and implementing them. It points out the importance of involving people in the implementation process who have the power and authority to provide necessary data and equipment. The paper concludes with a discussion of the application of the algorithm to a system of three reservoirs when energy prices vary over the day.