Pumped hydro storage (PHS) complements wind and solar energy by providing a crucial solution for the integration and stabilization of these variable renewable energy sources into the power grid. Here’s how PHS supports wind and solar:
Energy Storage and Grid Stability
- Storage of Excess Energy: During periods of high energy production from wind and solar (e.g., sunny days or windy nights), excess energy is used to pump water from a lower reservoir to an upper reservoir. This allows for the storage of energy that would otherwise be wasted.
- Supply During Demand Peaks: When energy demand peaks (e.g., during evenings or cloudy days), the stored water is released from the upper reservoir, generating electricity as it passes through turbines to the lower reservoir. This ensures a reliable supply of power when wind and solar output is low.
Grid Services and Support
- Frequency Control: PHS helps stabilize the grid by providing frequency control, which is essential as intermittent sources like wind and solar reduce grid inertia.
- Reactive Power Support: PHS can provide reactive power, maintaining grid stability and ensuring the integration of more renewable sources.
- Black Start Capability: In the event of a grid failure, PHS facilities can restart the power system, providing a critical black start capability.
Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness
- Large-Scale Storage Solution: PHS is well-suited for long-duration energy storage, making it a cost-effective option for managing daily or weekly variations in renewable energy supply.
- Long Lifecycle: PHS facilities have a long lifespan, typically over 40 years for equipment and up to 100 years for dams, making them a sustainable investment.
Overall, pumped hydro storage acts as a buffer that helps maintain grid reliability while allowing for greater integration of wind and solar energy into the grid.
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