Optimization of Bradley Lake Hydropower using lake elevation rule curve modeling

Bradley Lake Hydropower Facility does not currently operate under any controlled system to optimize power production. This study simulated power production during a six-year period, from 2003 to 2009, to determine an optimal rule curve based operational system to increase power production. Numerous lake elevation rule curves were tested as operational constraints to determine maximum power production and the role of seasonal operational shutdowns on overall power production. Moving Bradley Lake from a need-based power generation facility to rule-curve based power generation will lead to 3-4% increase in power generation. Instead of using hydropower secondary and complementary to natural gas generation, Bradley Lake, a renewable resource, would be run only if predetermined rule curve lake elevations are met.