Pumped storage power station and hydroelectric power station

What is pumped storage hydropower (PSH)?

Pumped storage hydropower (PSH) is a type of hydroelectric energy storage. It is a configuration of two water reservoirs at different elevations that can generate power as water moves down from one to the other (discharge), passing through a turbine. The system also requires power as it pumps water back into the upper reservoir (recharge).

What is pumped storage hydropower?

Pumped storage hydropower is the most dominant form of energy storage on the electric grid today. It also plays an important role in bringing more renewable resources onto the grid. PSH can be characterized as open-loop or closed-loop. Open-loop PSH has an ongoing hydrologic connection to a natural body of water.

What is adjustable-speed pumped storage hydropower (PSH)?

Executive Summary While the concept of pumped storage hydropower (PSH) is not new, adjustable-speed pumped storage hydropower (AS-PSH) is equipped with power electronics; thus, it has more capabilities and is more agile and flexible to integrate with modern power systems.

What is the total installed pumped storage hydropower capacity?

According to IHA's 2024 World Hydropower Outlook, total installed pumped storage hydropower (PSH) capacity grew by 6.5GW to 179GW. In addition, pumped hydro enjoys several distinct advantages over other forms of energy storage due to its long asset life, low-lifetime cost and independence from raw materials.

What is the main source of energy for pumped hydropower storage?

Pumped hydropower storage uses the force of gravity to generate electricity using water that has been previously pumped from a lower source to an upper reservoir. The technology absorbs surplus energy at times of low demand and releases it when demand is high.

What is a closed-loop pumped storage hydropower system?

With closed-loop PSH, reservoirs are not connected to an outside body of water. Open-loop pumped storage hydropower systems connect a reservoir to a naturally flowing water feature via a tunnel, using a turbine/pump and generator/motor to move water and create electricity.