- Grid Buffering and Balancing: PHS acts as a buffer for the grid, managing variability in renewable energy sources like wind and solar by storing excess energy during low-demand periods and releasing it during peak times, thus helping to balance supply and demand.
- High Efficiency: Pumped hydro storage systems have a high efficiency rate of about 90%, compared to other forms of energy storage like batteries which may have a 50-80% efficiency rate.
- Rapid Power Generation: PHS can quickly generate power in response to sudden demand spikes, supporting grid stability by preventing overloads.
- Long Infrastructure Lifespan: With proper maintenance, PHS infrastructure can last for decades, making it a durable and reliable energy storage solution.
- Renewable and Clean Energy: PHS generates electricity without direct greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner energy production and helping reduce the impacts of climate change.
- Low Lifetime Costs: Despite high initial construction costs, the long lifespan and low operating costs of PHS facilities make them cost-effective over their life cycle.
- Flexibility and Ancillary Services: PHS provides various ancillary services to the grid, including frequency regulation and reserve capacity, enhancing grid resilience and reliability.
- Low Global Warming Potential (GWP): Studies show that closed-loop PSH systems have a low GWP compared to other energy storage technologies, making them a sustainable option for energy storage.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-advantages-of-using-pumped-hydro-storage-for-energy-storage/
