Author(s): Benoît Houdant and Thomas Pinchard
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Hydrolink; Pumped storage hydropower; Pumped storage hydropower; Conventional thermal and nuclear power; Base load generation; Surplus energy transformation; Peak energy; Off-peak pumping; Turbine operation
Abstract:
The global energy system is the largest source of CO2 emissions (IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, 2022). Reducing energy sector emissions is therefore essential to limit climate change. IPCC recommends implementing the following changes by 2060: (i) reduce by 15% the global energy use, (ii) increase by 100% the global electricity use, (iii) retire fossil assets from the electrical generation mix and develop renewables.
Particularly in arid regions, solar photovoltaic (PV) will provide most of the electrical generation. However, solar PV requires efficient storage assets to balance 24/7 demand and generation. Pumped Hydro Storage projects (PHS) are key assets to support this transition, thanks to their broad range of services, extremely long life and their low carbon footprint.
This article shows why PHS are particularly needed in arid regions, and how the issue of water availability and quality can be addressed without a significant CAPEX or OPEX increase.
Year: 2025