Dynamic operation rules of multi-purpose reservoir for better flood management

Abstract

This research was commenced to enhance flood management via improving the operation rules of multi-purpose reservoirs (i.e. Aswan High Dam Reservoir “AHDR”). Literature in the field of reservoir operation rules was reviewed. Available data, about Aswan High Dam (AHD) together with its reservoir releases, were assembled and analyzed. Accessible numerical models were investigated to select the applicable model in terms of the assembled available data. Tenth scenarios (the current scenario and 9 proposed scenarios) for AHDR operation rules were designed and simulated. These scenarios include climate change, static operation (fixed level at beginning of water year from the 1st of August) and dynamic operation. Results were obtained and compared to the existing operation rules. The comparison considered the storage, water release, hydropower generation and total losses. In addition, the comparison considered the dam safety. The comparison indicated that the dynamic operation rules would achieve satisfying results; this scenario will provided an increase in the yearly AHDR storage from 3% to 4% during 9years. The total increase in the storage was 22.46 BCM during 9years without any reduction in the release downstream AHD and the hydropower generation. This increase in storage can be used for Toshka project.