Investigating dam reservoir operation optimization using metaheuristic algorithms

The optimization of dam reservoir operations is of the utmost importance, as operators strive to maximize revenue while minimizing expenses, risks, and deficiencies. Metaheuristics have recently been investigated extensively by researchers in the management of dam reservoirs. But the animal-concept-based metaheuristic algorithm with Lévy flight integration approach has not been used at Karun-4. This paper investigates the optimization of dam reservoir operation using three unexplored metaheuristics: the whale optimization algorithm (WOA), the Levy-flight WOA (LFWOA), and the Harris hawks optimization algorithm (HHO). Utilizing a time series data set on the hydrological and climatic characteristics of the Karun-4 hydroelectric reservoir in Iran, an analysis was conducted. The objective functions and constraints of the Karun-4 hydropower reservoir were examined throughout the optimization procedure. HHO produces the best optimal value, the least-worst optimal value, the best average optimal value, and the best standard deviation (SD) with scores of 0.000026, 0.001735, 0.000520, and 0.000614, respectively, resulting in the best overall ranking mean (RM) with a score of 1.5 at Karun-4. Throughout the duration of the test, the optimized trends of water release and water storage indicate that HHO is superior to the other investigated metaheuristics. WOA has the best correlation of variation (CV) with a score of 0.090195, while LFWOA has the best convergence rate (3.208 s) and best CPU time. Overall, it can be concluded that HHO has the most desirable performance in terms of optimization. Yet, current studies indicate that both WOA and LFWOA generate positive and comparable outcomes.