The lifespan of pumped hydro storage facilities significantly exceeds that of lithium-ion batteries.
Pumped Hydro Storage Lifespan:
- The electromechanical equipment of pumped hydro storage plants typically lasts more than 40 years.
- The dams and associated infrastructure can last around 100 years or more. Some sources estimate lifespans of 80 to over 100 years for closed-loop pumped hydro storage systems.
- There are real examples of pumped hydro plants operating for over a century, such as the Engeweiher plant in Switzerland, which has been running for 116 years and is expected to continue functioning for several more decades.
Lithium-Ion Battery Lifespan:
- In contrast, lithium-ion batteries generally have an operational lifespan ranging from about 8 to 15 years before their storage capacity and efficiency notably degrade.
Summary Comparison:
| Storage Type | Typical Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pumped Hydro Storage | 40+ years (equipment) to 100+ years (dam/infrastructure) | Can exceed a century; very long-lasting infrastructure |
| Lithium-Ion Batteries | 8–15 years | Degrades over time, requires replacement or recycling |
This vast difference means pumped hydro storage is considered a long-duration, durable energy storage solution well-suited for grid-scale applications, especially for balancing intermittent renewable energy sources over decades. Lithium-ion batteries, while flexible and quick to deploy, require more frequent replacement cycles, affecting their long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness for long-duration storage.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-the-lifespan-of-pumped-hydro-storage-facilities-compare-to-that-of-lithium-ion-batteries/
