Dynamic control of the Delfland polders and storage basin, The Netherlands

Abstract

In regional water systems such as those in the Netherlands, a large number of interests with commonly conflicting requirements are involved. Dynamic control offers a way of controlling these complex water systems, making use of the dynamics of the water system. Dynamic control can deal with the entire water-related environment, including all different interests present. This advanced control technique is based on optimization and achieves more efficient operation of a water system because all capacities available in the system can be fully used.

When new requirements of any interests in a water system emerge, the traditional solution is to build new water-management infrastructure or extend the existing infrastructure. The application of advanced control techniques shows that this may not always be necessary.

For the Delfland water system, a case study shows how dynamic control can be used to balance the interests present and continually match the water system state with the requirements. The case described demonstrates how dynamic control can be used to reduce undesirable water-system behavior during periods of excessive precipitation or drought.

Current town and country plans imply an increase in the impervious surface in Delfland in the near future. If the current control practice continues, installation of extra capacity at existing drainage pumping stations would be needed, or even construction of entirely new pumping stations or extra storage facilities. Application of dynamic control makes it possible to use the current capacities in the water system more efficiently and thus avoid large capital investment which otherwise would be necessary in the future.