Due to environmental constraints, multiple use of water, and other reasons of socioeconomic nature, it is not always possible to fully exploit the theoretical energy potential of an estuary. In this work, a methodology to maximize the total energy generated by a tidal power plant with reservoir constraints is presented. Through modeling components and tide cycles, an optimal dispatch of the turbines during the generation process is performed, considering a one-year horizon for the case of simple-effect operation. As a case study, we considered the estuary Bacanga, located in the urban area of sao Luis, Maranhao, Brazil. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that with an optimal dispatch of turbines during the generation process it is possible to obtain a significant gain. Therefore, the methodology presented in this work can be considered as a viable alternative to increase the tidal hydroelectric power generation with constrained reservoir, as it is the case of Bacanga estuary. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.