Several innovative approaches are being developed for Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) facilities, aiming to enhance their efficiency, reduce costs, and expand their applicability geographically:
Innovative Approaches to PSH Facilities
- Underground Construction Using Tunnel-Boring Machines (TBMs):
- Researchers are exploring the use of TBMs to excavate underground channels that mimic the upper and lower reservoirs of traditional PSH facilities. This method reduces construction time, equipment needs, and costs, making PSH viable in areas with limited natural elevation differences, such as Texas or the Midwest.
- Small PSH with Novel Reservoir Materials:
- Innovations include the use of reservoirs made from corrugated steel and floating membranes, which could reduce construction costs and increase flexibility in installation locations.
- Submersible Pump-Turbines and Motor-Generators:
- These technologies offer more flexible and potentially cost-effective solutions by allowing for easier maintenance and installation in various environments.
- Geomechanical PSH:
- This approach involves using the geomechanical properties of rock formations to enhance storage capabilities, possibly reducing the need for extensive excavation.
- Hybrid Configurations:
- Innovations include integrating PSH with wind plants or desalination plants to leverage synergies and enhance overall energy efficiency.
- Underground Mine PSH and Open-Pit Mine PSH:
- These methods utilize existing mine infrastructure to reduce initial construction costs and environmental impacts.
- Thermal Underground PSH:
- This involves integrating thermal energy storage into PSH systems, potentially enhancing efficiency and capacity.
- Pressurized Vessel PSH:
- This approach could reduce land requirements by using pressurized vessels to store energy.
- High-Density Fluid PSH:
- Using fluids with higher densities can increase energy storage efficiency and reduce spatial requirements.
These innovations aim to improve the economic viability and operational flexibility of PSH facilities, making them more suitable for diverse geographical settings and energy systems.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-innovative-approaches-are-being-developed-for-psh-facilities/
