The power of hydroelectric pumped storage power plants (HPSPPs) that were commissioned worldwide in 2022-2023 reached a record high of 14.8 gigawatts (GW), surpassing the previous record of 13.1 GW set in 2016-2021. This significant increase in capacity is a testament to the growing importance of HPSPPs in the global energy landscape.
HPSPPs are a type of hydropower plant that uses two reservoirs at different elevations to store and generate electricity. During periods of low demand, excess electricity from other power sources is used to pump water from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir. When there is a high demand for electricity, the water is released back to the lower reservoir, passing through turbines to generate electricity. This process allows HPSPPs to act as a form of energy storage, providing a reliable and flexible source of electricity.
The rise in HPSPP capacity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the increasing demand for renewable energy sources has led to a greater focus on hydropower, which is the largest source of renewable electricity globally. HPSPPs, in particular, have the advantage of being able to store energy, making them a valuable asset in balancing the intermittent nature of other renewable sources such as wind and solar.
Secondly, the advancements in technology have made HPSPPs more efficient and cost-effective. The use of variable speed pumps and turbines, as well as advanced control systems, has improved the overall performance of HPSPPs. This has also led to a decrease in the construction and maintenance costs of these plants, making them a more attractive option for energy companies.
The increase in HPSPP capacity is not limited to a particular region or country. In fact, it is a global trend, with new plants being commissioned in various parts of the world. In Europe, for example, the commissioning of the 1.4 GW Ffestiniog pumped storage plant in the United Kingdom and the 1.2 GW Linthal pumped storage plant in Switzerland contributed significantly to the overall increase in capacity. In Asia, China and Japan have also added new HPSPPs to their energy mix, with a combined capacity of over 2 GW.
The benefits of HPSPPs go beyond just providing a source of renewable energy. These plants also have a positive impact on the environment. By storing excess electricity during off-peak hours, HPSPPs reduce the need for fossil fuel-based power plants to meet peak demand, thereby reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the use of two reservoirs allows for the conservation of water resources, as the same water is used repeatedly.
The increase in HPSPP capacity is expected to continue in the coming years. Several new projects are in the pipeline, with a combined capacity of over 10 GW. This includes the 2.2 GW Snowy 2.0 pumped storage project in Australia, which is set to become the largest HPSPP in the world upon completion. The growth of HPSPPs is also expected to accelerate in developing countries, where there is a growing need for reliable and sustainable sources of electricity.
In conclusion, the record-breaking increase in HPSPP capacity in 2022-2023 is a significant milestone for the global energy sector. It highlights the growing importance of these plants in meeting the world’s energy needs, as well as their potential to contribute to a more sustainable future. With advancements in technology and a growing demand for renewable energy, HPSPPs are set to play a crucial role in the transition towards a cleaner and more resilient energy system.
