The round-trip efficiencies of pumped hydroelectric storage and lithium-ion batteries are quite comparable, generally falling in the 70% to 82% range.
- Pumped Hydroelectric Storage (PSH): The round-trip efficiency typically varies between 70% and 80%, with some sources citing efficiency slightly above 80% in well-optimized systems. This means that 70-80% of the electrical energy used to pump water uphill can be recovered when it flows back down through turbines to generate electricity.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Utility-scale lithium-ion batteries have demonstrated round-trip efficiencies averaging about 82%, indicating that around 82% of the electrical energy stored can be retrieved for use.
In summary, lithium-ion batteries tend to have a slightly higher round-trip efficiency, around 82%, compared to pumped hydro storage, which usually ranges between 70% and 80%, but both technologies are in a similar efficiency ballpark. The exact efficiency depends on system design, operation, and technological improvements. Pumped hydro is generally preferred for very large-scale, long-duration storage, while lithium-ion batteries excel in fast response and modular applications.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-the-round-trip-efficiencies-of-pumped-hydroelectric-storage-and-lithium-ion-batteries-compare/
