The main geographical limitations of pumped hydro storage (PHS) stem primarily from the stringent site-specific requirements necessary for its operation:
- Need for Significant Elevation Difference: PHS requires two reservoirs at different elevations, typically with an elevation difference around or exceeding 300 meters, to effectively use gravity for pumping and generating electricity. This restricts PHS to areas where suitable topography exists, such as mountainous or hilly regions.
- Proximity to Water Sources: Sites must have access to adequate water supply to fill and maintain the reservoirs. Availability of water is critical and limits where PHS can be constructed.
- Limited Suitable Locations: Because of the above factors, suitable sites are rare and not evenly distributed globally. PHS has historically been built in places with natural river formations and favorable terrain, but such locations are limited and often already exploited, constraining new development.
- Environmental and Ecological Sensitivity: Ideal sites often overlap with areas of significant natural beauty or ecological importance, leading to conflicts with conservation efforts and raising concerns about environmental impact.
- Geological Constraints: Beyond surface geography, underlying geology must be suitable to support reservoir construction and avoid risks such as leakage or landslides.
In summary, the geographical limitations of pumped hydro storage include the requirement for steep elevation differences, reliable water availability, suitable geological conditions, and the frequent coincidence of candidate sites with environmentally sensitive areas. These factors limit the widespread applicability and expansion potential of pumped hydro storage plants.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-geographical-limitations-of-pumped-hydro-storage/
