Author(s): Zhang Ling; Liu Gang; Wang Yuanjian
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Multi-year reservoir; Optimizing operation; Runoff utilization; Sediment-laden rivers
Abstract: To alleviate water scarcity in the Yellow River Basin, this study investigates the optimized operation of the Longyangxia multi-year regulation reservoir and its cascade system, with a particular focus on improving runoff utilization during wet years in sediment-laden rivers. A basin-scale multi-objective optimization model integrating hydropower generation, sediment flushing, and wasted-water discharge was developed and solved using the NSGA-II algorithm. Two representative hydrological scenarios—consecutive wet years and wet-to-dry years—were simulated. The results demonstrate that the optimized year-end drawdown range of 2568–2577 m under consecutive wet years and 2575–2580 m under wet-to-dry conditions, can simultaneously enhance power generation, significantly improve sediment flushing capacity, and reduce inefficient water release to the sea. Furthermore, coordinated operation between the Longyangxia Reservoir and downstream annual-regulation reservoirs markedly strengthens inter-annual regulation capability and improves the overall water-use efficiency of the cascade system. The proposed operational framework provides a scientifically robust basis for improving runoff utilization and integrated reservoir management in large sediment-laden river basins.
Year: 2026