The topic of this paper is minimum cost operative planning of pressurized water supply networks over a finite horizon and under reliable demand forecast. Since this is a very hard problem, it is desirable to employ sophisticated mathematical algorithms, which in turn calls for carefully designed models with suitable properties. The paper develops a nonlinear mixed integer model and a nonlinear programming model with favorable properties for gradient-based optimization methods, based on smooth component models for the network elements. In combination with further nonlinear programming techniques (Burgschweiger et al. in ZIB Report ZR-05-31, Zuse Institute Berlin, 2005), practically satisfactory near-optimum solutions even for large networks can be generated in acceptable time using standard optimization software on a PC workstation. Such an optimization system is in operation at Berliner Wasserbetriebe.

Mathematical decision support for operative planning in water supply systems is highly desirable; it leads, however, to very difficult optimization problems. We propose a nonlinear programming approach that yields practically satisfactory operating schedules in acceptable computing time even for large networks. Based on a carefully designed model supporting gradient-based optimization algorithms, this approach employs a special initialization strategy for convergence acceleration, special minimum up and down time constraints together with pump aggregation to handle switching decisions, and several network reduction techniques for further speed-up. Results for selected application scenarios at Berliner Wasserbetriebe demonstrate the success of the approach.