Information Requirements for Improving Hydropower

A method of analysis is described with the objective of determining how (and whether) aerospace derived information system technology can effectively increase hydropower production. The increase in annual hydropower benefits is derived from more accurate reservoir inflow forecasting based upon the use of new or improved sensors and satellite data relay systems. Sensitivity analyses are presented for watershed parameters imbedded in conceptual watershed models. Results are related to hydropower production and sensor requirements via a reservoir optimization model to establish information system requirements. A numerical example is presented using a typical multiple purpose reservoir system located in northern California.