Integrated Planning and Simulation of Multipurpose Reservoir Operation for Basin-Wide Energy Maximization: Exploring the Case of Kaligandaki River Basin in Nepal

Abstract

The Kaligandaki River, a significant tributary in Nepal, is central to various proposed projects for reservoirs and inter-basin transfers, primarily aimed for hydropower generation. These projects have been planned and studied separately without observing the impact of individual projects on each other. To achieve efficient reservoir operation, it is crucial to incorporate key elements such as water resource management, hydropower considerations, and the integration of reservoir projects, supported by simulation techniques. This research undertakes to achieve shared benefits regarding the relationship of the three reservoir projects i.e. Kaligandaki Storage Hydroelectric Project, Adhikhola Storage Hydroelectric Project, Lower Badigad Storage Hydroelectric Project and an inter-basin transfer project i.e. Kaligandaki Diversion Multipurpose Project lying in the study area. HEC-ResSim software has been employed to simulate hydropower under different project development scenarios. The simulation model was applied to operate reservoirs as per the rule curve taken. For each of the three reservoir projects, proposed reservoir operation rule curve assures the maximum annual average energy and the dry energy productions with the best reservoir performance indicators. The integrated operation of these projects aims to maximize energy generation and fulfill the diversion requirements of the Kaligandaki Diversion Multipurpose Project