Comparison of stochastic and fuzzy dynamic programming models for the operation of a multipurpose reservoir

Reservoir management is a highly complex problem, which includes the uncertainty in the inflows as well as in the objectives. Stochastic dynamic programming (SDP) has been widely used to develop the optimal operating policies of multipurpose reservoirs. In the recent years, fuzzy optimization has been used to incorporate the uncertainty caused due to the imprecise nature of objectives. In the present study, a comparison is made between a conventional SDP model and fuzzy dynamic programming models for optimal operation of a multipurpose reservoir. The two models are developed for Hirakud Reservoir on River Mahanadi in the State of Orissa in India. The performance of the reservoir is evaluated under the operating policies derived from these models through simulation. The results indicate that the fuzzy dynamic programming model performs better in achieving the flood control objective and thus in the overall performan1ce of reservoir.