Site geology significantly impacts the cost of pumped hydro storage (PHS) projects. Here are some ways geology affects these costs:
Impact of Site Geology on Costs
- Construction Complexity: Site geology can greatly influence the complexity and difficulty of constructing PSH facilities. Areas with challenging geology may require more extensive excavation, complex tunneling, or specific designs to handle conditions like unstable rock formations or high groundwater flow. This complexity increases labor, equipment, and engineering costs, leading to higher overall project expenses.
- Environmental and Social Considerations: Geological conditions can also affect the environmental and social feasibility of a project. Locations with sensitive geological features might be subject to stricter regulations or public opposition, potentially raising costs due to additional studies, permits, or mitigation measures.
- Capital Costs: Projects located in areas with favorable geology (e.g., stable and easily excavated rock) tend to have lower capital costs compared to sites with difficult geology. Favorable conditions reduce the need for elaborate excavations or specialized engineering solutions, which helps keep costs manageable.
- Risk Reduction: Geology impacts the geologic risks associated with PSH development, such as the risk of unexpected excavations or underground cavern instability. Technologies designed to mitigate these risks, like those developed by Obermeyer Hydro, can reduce construction time and costs by simplifying geologically sensitive components of the project.
- Cost Variability: The cost range for PSH projects can vary widely depending on geological conditions. Projects in challenging geological settings might have costs at the higher end of the typical range ($1,500/kW to $2,500/kW), while sites with favorable conditions could result in lower costs.
Overall, site geology plays a critical role in determining the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of PSH projects, influencing both direct construction costs and indirect environmental and risk management expenses.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-site-geology-impact-the-cost-of-pumped-hydro-storage/
