Multi-objective Optimal Design for Run-of-River Hydropower Based on Runoff Simulation

Run-of-river hydropower is an important renewable energy source for achieving a low-carbon energy structure. However, designing suitable capacity for run-of-river power plants is often hindered by two main challenges: lack of hydrologic data and inappropriate design objectives in optimization models. To address these issues, a multi-objective capacity optimization model coupled with a lumped hydrologic model was applied in this study. First, the lumped hydrologic model was applied to generate long-term hydrologic data for economic viability analysis. Then, two economic indices, net present value and benefit-cost ratio, were selected as design objectives to represent different aspects of the financial viability of run-of-river plants. Finally, a case study was presented to verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach.