Economic-Based Optimization of Panama Canal System Operations
Publication: Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management
Volume 132, Issue 6
Abstract
A network flow optimization model is developed to study the operations of the Panama Canal system. The prescriptive model chooses monthly reservoir releases and storage levels that maximize the overall benefit of the system. Solution of the model relies on penalty functions that relate value (either economic or noneconomic) to storage levels, releases, and flows in the system. Penalty functions are developed for the multiple purposes of the system, including water supply, navigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. Patterns observed in the model results can serve as starting points to develop improved operating rules for the existing system, and the model can also help evaluate the potential benefits of structural changes to the system. The primary operational trade-off evaluated herein is between maximizing hydroelectric power generation and meeting navigation requirements with a high degree of reliability. Model results also provide some insights into the capacity expansion decisions faced by the Panama Canal Authority.
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Acknowledgments
This paper is based on a study performed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC) and the Institute for Water Resources (IWR). The study was performed in support of the Panama Canal Commission’s (PCC) Capacity Study, under PCC Work Order No. GS-13.
Marilyn Hurst and Art Pabst of HEC developed the hydrologic data used in the analysis. Robert Carl, HEC, and Paul Jensen, Private Consultant, enhanced the HEC-PRM program for application to the PCC system. Michael Burnham of HEC served as project manager, and Darryl Davis, Director of HEC, provided general guidance for the project. A number of ACP (formerly PCC) staff were instrumental in data compilation and model validation, including Augustin Arias, Teodolinda Atencio, Abelardo Bal, Jorge de la Guardia, and Carlos Vargas. Jay Lund, University of California at Davis, provided helpful advice for the analysis of results. The suggestions of two reviewers are also appreciated.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management
Volume 132 • Issue 6 • November 2006
Pages: 503 - 512
Copyright
© 2006 ASCE.
History
Received: Oct 6, 2004
Accepted: Apr 10, 2005
Published online: Nov 1, 2006
Published in print: Nov 2006
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