THE OTTAWA RIVER REGULATION MODELLING SYSTEM (ORRMS)
by
D. Bechard¹, I. Corbu², R. Gagnon³, G.A. Nix⁴, L.E. Parker⁵, K. Stewart⁴ and M. Trinh¹

SYNOPSIS

A linear-separable programming model was developed to allow an integrated operation of the reservoirs located in the Ottawa River basin. The model optimizes the operation of the river for reducing flood damages only, or for energy purposes only, while respecting constraints on flows and levels imposed by other interests such as recreation, navigation, log driving, etc. It also allows trade-offs between the sometimes contradictory objectives of flood protection and energy generation. The model has been developed mainly to facilitate the operation of the Ottawa River. However, it could also be used for other applications such as determining the impact of new reservoirs, assessing the effect of new constraints, etc. Although the model was developed specifically for the Ottawa River, it is general and the computer program could be applied directly, or with only minor enhancements, to other river systems.

1 Service Charges et Ressources, Direction Production, Hydro Québec, 75 Dorchester St. West, Montréal, Québec H2A 124.
2 Resource Utilization Department, Power Systems Operations Division, Ontario Hydro, 700 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5G lX6.
3 Exploitation des Ouvrages, Environement Québec, 1640 Boulevard de l'Entente, Québec, Québec G1S 4N6.
4 Water Planning and Management Branch, Inland Water Directorate, Environment Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A OE7.
5 TEE Consulting Services, 29 Northview Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K2E 6A6.