Simulation optimization for optimal sizing of water transfer systems

Abstract

Water transfer development projects (WTDPs) could be considered in arid and semi-arid areas in response to uneven distribution of available water resources over space. This paper presents a simulation-optimization model by linking Water Evaluation and Planning System (WEAP) to particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm for optimal design and operation of the Karoon-to-Zohreh Basin WTDP in Iran. PSO searches for optimal values of design and operation variables including capacities of water storage and transfer components as well as priority numbers of reservoirs target storage levels, respectively; And WAEP evaluates the system operation for any combinations of the design and operation variables. The results indicate that the water transfer project under consideration can supply water for the development of Dehdash and Choram Cropland (DCCL) in an undeveloped area located in Kohkiloyeh Province.