Environmental Impacts of Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage Facilities
Pumped hydroelectric energy storage facilities, such as those used in pumped storage hydropower (PSH), have various environmental impacts depending on their configuration—either open-loop or closed-loop systems. Here are some key points regarding their environmental effects:
Open-Loop Systems
- Ecological Alterations: These systems, which are connected to naturally flowing water bodies, can alter ecological systems by changing water flow patterns, potentially affecting aquatic life.
- Diversion of Rivers: Construction may require diverting a river, which can temporarily disrupt the local ecosystem and possibly lead to major flooding during or after construction.
- Aquatic Impacts: The continuous interaction with natural water flows can lead to greater impacts on aquatic resources compared to closed-loop systems.
Closed-Loop Systems
- Localized Impacts: Closed-loop systems, being “off-stream,” generally have more localized and shorter-duration environmental impacts. This reduces their effects on aquatic ecosystems compared to open-loop systems.
- Geological and Soil Impacts: However, closed-loop systems can have higher impacts on geology, soils, and groundwater, especially if they use groundwater or involve underground components.
- Water Sourcing Issues: The sourcing of water can be complex due to water rights and other legal challenges, leading to potential delays and contention among stakeholders.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Both open-loop and closed-loop pumped storage hydropower facilities are noted for having relatively low greenhouse gas emissions compared to other energy storage technologies. PSH is highlighted as a clean form of renewable energy with minimal life cycle emissions.
Future Developments
The development of new closed-loop pumped storage projects internationally is underway with a focus on minimizing environmental impacts, offering greater siting flexibility and potentially reducing the ecological footprint compared to traditional open-loop designs.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-environmental-impacts-of-pumped-hydroelectric-energy-storage-facilities/
