Variable operational and maintenance (O&M) costs for pumped hydro storage (PHS) are influenced by several factors, including:
- Overhaul and Parts Replacement: O&M costs include expenses related to parts and overhauls of pumps and turbines. These overhauls are typically required every 10 years and can cost around $16/kW-year for fixed-speed units. Parts cost about 40% of labor costs and are constant across different power levels.
- Energy Throughput: The duty cycle and energy throughput affect the basic variable O&M cost. A common estimate for this is $0.5125/MWh across various storage technologies.
- Operational Factors: Operational aspects like the efficiency of the pumps and turbines, the frequency of pumping and generating cycles, and water management can affect maintenance needs and costs.
- Technology Type: The O&M costs for adjustable-speed units might be the same or less than those for fixed-speed units, though there is limited data on these newer technologies in the U.S.
- Site-Specific Conditions: While not directly influencing variable O&M, site conditions such as geology and water availability can affect overall operational efficiency and, indirectly, maintenance needs.
In summary, variable O&M costs are primarily driven by equipment maintenance needs and operational efficiency, with site-specific conditions playing a secondary role in overall plant performance.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-factors-influence-the-variable-om-costs-for-pumped-hydro-storage/
