Analyzing Instream Flow Tradeoffs for Small Hydropower Development

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Enviromental Policy and Law of Instream Flow

Volume

1

Issue

3

Publication Date

7-1-1990

First Page

173

Last Page

182

Abstract

A multi-objective optimization model is used to analyze tradeoffs between net power revenues from hydropower development and the environmental benefits of instream flow. The model also incorporates an instream flow objective using a methodology that relates changes in stream discharge to a target-response variable such as habitat, fish biomass, or standing crop. In maximizing net power revenue and instream benefits, the model solution gives optimal penstock diameters and monthly hydropower diversions and instream flows in each river reach. Hydropower development on the Logan River in northeastern Utah was used as a case study to demonstrate the application of the model. The model results show the feasible alternatives and identify Pareto optimal alternatives that should be the focus of instream flow negotiations regarding economic and instream flow benefits.

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